OWINO MARKET SAFE, KCCA CLARIFIES AMID DEMOLITION FEARS

The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving, not demolishing, St. Balikuddembe (Owino) Market, one of Kampala’s busiest commercial hubs.

Appearing before the Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) on Friday, KCCA Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki clarified that a demolition incident on part of the market on March 7 was not authorized by the Authority.

KCCA has since taken steps to secure and protect the market.

Her remarks come amid concerns from traders and the public about the future of the market. Buzeki firmly dismissed claims of a planned demolition, emphasizing that KCCA’s focus is on infrastructure improvement and trader protection.

She explained that sections of land adjacent to the market are designated as water reservoirs and drainage corridors, which are critical for managing stormwater in the city. As such, no permanent structures are permitted in these areas.

“That area where the structures were demolished are supposed to act as a reserve for water. There must be an inlet into the main drainage channel, and any blockage is not allowed,” Buzeki said.

She noted that while some structures have been removed from these protected zones, no new developments will be allowed there, as part of deliberate measures to mitigate flooding.

To further address drainage challenges, KCCA is planning to construct a flood control chamber on the same area to improve stormwater management within the market. This intervention is expected to reduce flooding, safeguard goods, and improve working conditions for traders.

During the session, lawmakers led by COSASE Chairperson Medard Lubega Ssegona, alongside Buhweju MP Francis Mwijukye and Peter Okeyo, sought clarification on land ownership and the long-term protection of traders.

Buzeki confirmed that KCCA holds the land title for St. Balikuddembe Market, reinforcing the Authority’s mandate to manage and safeguard the facility in the public interest.

“There are no plans to demolish Owino Market. Our plans are to improve it,” she emphasized.

She further highlighted KCCA’s commitment to a participatory approach, noting that traders and market leaders will be actively involved in any redevelopment processes, including planning and design.

“If we are to improve the market, we shall involve them, inform them, and develop designs together.”

On a separate matter, Buzeki reported that 95 out of 97 individuals affected by the Kiteezi landfill incident have been compensated. The remaining two cases are pending due to administrative challenges, including one individual currently abroad and another involving a family dispute over compensation.

KCCA remains focused on delivering sustainable urban solutions that balance infrastructure development, environmental management, and the livelihoods of city residents.