Kampala, Uganda — The Kampala Capital City Authority – KCCA 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 habit of some city residents and business operators who indiscriminately dump rubbish, plastics, and other waste directly into the drains — acts described as both unpatriotic and criminal.

“Open drainages are no longer tenable in a modern city like Kampala. They are open invitations to disease, flooding, and urban degradation. We cannot keep pouring money into desilting the same spots every rainy season,” one councillor remarked during the session.

The problem, according to KCCA engineers, is compounded by Kampala’s rapid urbanisation and inadequate public sensitisation. With the city’s population expanding at a fast rate, existing drainage channels — many of them open and poorly maintained — are constantly overwhelmed, particularly during the rainy season.

“When the rains come, waste dumped in these open drains quickly clogs the flow, leading to flash floods, road destruction, and, in some cases, tragic loss of life. It’s an avoidable disaster,” said one KCCA official.

Council members proposed a strategic move to gradually transition all open drainage infrastructure to closed systems that are safer, cleaner, and less prone to blockage.

The move, they said, would not only reduce health hazards but also align with Kampala’s vision of becoming a clean, resilient, and liveable city.

KCCA also issued a call to action for private sector involvement in infrastructure upgrades. “The Authority encourages the private sector to take charge where possible, under the technical guidance and regulation of KCCA,” read part of the council’s resolution.

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 towards 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 programmes.

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.