EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR VISITS KITEEZI VICTIMS

Frank Rusa, the Ag. Executive Director of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), visited the victims of the Kiteezi landfill disaster, who have been living in a makeshift camp for nearly two months.

During the visit, Rusa expressed his appreciation to the affected residents for their patience, assuring them of KCCA's commitment to addressing their immediate needs and implementing long-term solutions.

He also commended the Uganda Red Cross Society and the Office of the Prime Minister for their continuous support in providing relief to the victims.

“Our top priority is to resettle those affected by the landfill collapse,” Rusa affirmed. “The government is working to ensure that those impacted are compensated and resettled in safer areas.”

He further explained that KCCA is in the process of decommissioning the Kiteezi landfill, acknowledging its environmental threat to surrounding communities. Rusa revealed that KCCA is actively seeking investors to help convert waste into energy and other valuable products, a step aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and enhancing community safety.

“The collapse of the landfill has blocked key water channels, causing the flooding,” Rusa said. “We have mobilized the necessary equipment, including graders, to speed up the clearance of the blocked drainage channels. This will allow water to flow freely and prevent further flooding. However, this process will take time. In the meantime, we are working tirelessly to address the immediate challenges.”

KCCA, together with other stakeholders, has deployed teams working daily to clear the waste that caused the water blockage, restoring the flow and preventing further damage.

Rusa was accompanied by Robert Nowere, the Acting Deputy Executive Director, and Sheila Birungi, KCCA’s Director Gender, Community Services and Production. Both officials echoed KCCA's commitment to ensuring that the urgent needs of the victims are addressed while also working towards sustainable, long-term solutions for the people of Kiteezi.

“We are fully committed to resolving this situation,” Rusa reassured. “While we continue to clear the drainage system to prevent future flooding, our larger focus remains on finding long-term, sustainable solutions for the affected communities.”