Traders in downtown Kampala have filed a lawsuit against businessman Hamis Kiggundu, KCCA, and NEMA, accusing them of negligence that led to severe flooding and destruction of merchandise during last Friday’s heavy rains.
The traders, represented by lawyer Kalule Mpologoma of Luzige, Lubaga, Kavuma & Co. Advocates, want court to halt ongoing construction works on the Nakivubo Channel and order compensation for those who lost goods.
“Our people suffered huge losses. NEMA allowed Hamis Kiggundu to continue with this construction, and they must be held accountable,” Mpologoma said.
The traders argue that Ham Enterprises’ redevelopment works around the Nakivubo Channel diverted storm water, causing it to pour into arcades that had never previously flooded.
Godfrey Katongole, chairperson of the Uganda National Traders Alliance (UNTA), said at least 300 traders have already reported losses—and the number is still growing.
“These traders deserve compensation,” Katongole said. “Flooding only started after the construction works interfered with the water flow.”
Lukwago Wants Ham Arrested
Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has demanded the arrest of Kiggundu, accusing him of illegally constructing in the drainage channel.
“People have died and property has been destroyed because of illegal works on this channel. Ham must be held accountable,” Lukwago said, noting that four people were killed in the floods.
At a meeting with affected traders and KCCA officials, Lukwago said a five-member committee has been set up to verify damage and identify victims.
KCCA Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki said the authority is already assessing the situation.
“Our technical team is on the ground to identify affected traders and we will engage the Office of the Prime Minister on possible support,” Buzeki said.
