KAMPALA, Uganda — The Kampala Capital City Authority council has called for the phasing out of all open drainage systems in the city, citing their significant contribution to worsening sanitation and flooding crises.
During a tense Wednesday meeting attended by city division mayors, technical officers and councillors, the persistent problem of unregulated waste disposal and its link to open drains was a central focus. Council members unanimously condemned the practice of some city residents and businesses indiscriminately dumping refuse, plastics and other waste directly into the drains, describing the acts as unpatriotic and criminal.
One councillor stated that open drainages are no longer viable in a modern city like Kampala, calling them invitations to disease, flooding and urban degradation. The councillor added that continually funding the desilting of the same areas each rainy season is unsustainable.
KCCA engineers report the problem is compounded by Kampala’s rapid urbanization and insufficient public awareness. With the city’s fast-growing population, existing drainage channels, many open and poorly maintained, are consistently overwhelmed, especially during the rainy season. A KCCA official said that when it rains, waste in open drains quickly clogs the flow, leading to flash floods, road damage and, at times, loss of life, describing it as an avoidable disaster.
Council members proposed a gradual transition of all open drainage infrastructure to closed systems, which they said would be safer, cleaner and less prone to blockage. They argued the move would reduce health hazards and align with Kampala’s vision of becoming a clean, resilient and livable city.
KCCA also called for private sector involvement in infrastructure upgrades, stating in a resolution that the authority encourages the private sector to take charge where possible, under KCCA’s technical guidance and regulation.
Council Applauds Rusa
During the same session, the council commended former acting Executive Director Frank Rusa for his service during his interim leadership.
The council applauded Rusa’s leadership, professionalism and commitment while the city faced critical infrastructure challenges. Members noted his calm and strategic approach played a vital role in restoring order and refocusing KCCA’s priorities.
Rusa is credited with overseeing major developments, most notably the successful supervision of flood control works in the Nakivubo area. The initiative, executed under his leadership, significantly reduced waterlogging in the flood-prone zone during the March 2025 rains.
The council said these achievements elevated his standing within the institution and earned him acclaim for his contributions toward building a more resilient and responsive urban authority.
As part of its broader sanitation agenda, KCCA is now working with environmental agencies and local leaders to increase enforcement against illegal waste disposal and strengthen community awareness programs.
KCCA said it will intensify operations targeting illegal waste dumping while advancing its case for the complete closure of open drainage systems, a vision they described as necessary and overdue.
