DEWATERING FLOODED KITEEZI BEGINS

Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has launched an emergency dewatering operation to address the severe flooding in Kiteezi, where blocked drainage channels near the Kiteezi Landfill.

The Acting Executive Director Frank Rusa, revealed that KCCA has deployed water pumps to remove over 10,000 cubic meters (10,000,000 liters) of water daily to restore normalcy.

"We are using water pumps to push over 10,000 cubic meters of water daily as part of efforts to dewater the area," said Rusa. "We are also working on unblocking drainage channels and stabilizing the slopes."

In addition to these efforts, KCCA continues to encourage residents within a 200-meter buffer zone of the landfill to evacuate, as unstable garbage slopes and waste-filled water pose serious health risks.

"We urge people in the buffer zone to evacuate to avoid further dangers," Rusa cautioned.

The Office of the Prime Minister has already provided interim settlement assistance to help the residents secure alternative accommodation.

Rusa extended his appreciation to the Office of the Prime Minister for its support during the crisis, noting that one major takeaway from the Kiteezi incident is the need for a larger buffer zone in future landfill projects.

KCCA is also fast-tracking its plans to decommission the Kiteezi Landfill.

According to Rusa, the authority is pushing for a modern waste-to-energy facility, inspired by successful models from countries like Ethiopia, and is in discussions with investors for a comprehensive waste management strategy.

"We are not going back to landfills," he said. "Procurement processes to acquire new land for garbage disposal are progressing well."

KCCA’s immediate goal is to alleviate the flooding in Kiteezi while working on long-term waste management solutions that safeguard both residents and the environment.

"The big lesson we have learnt from Kiteezi is the issue of the buffer. For future landfill projects, we shall ensure a buffer zone of almost 500 meters to prevent access and danger to the community safety," he stated.