Kampala Moves To Replace Open Drains With Closed Systems After Nakivubo Drainage Success”

Kampala, Uganda:— In a major push to combat flooding and improve sanitation, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has announced plans to eliminate open drainage systems across the city. Officials argue that these outdated structures worsen pollution and flooding, calling for a shift to safer, enclosed alternatives.

The decision followed a heated council meeting on Wednesday, where division mayors, technical experts, and local leaders highlighted the dangers of unchecked waste dumping into the drains. Attendees slammed the reckless disposal of plastics and garbage into waterways, labeling it a public health hazard and a crime against urban development.

“Kampala can no longer afford open drains—they attract filth, spread disease, and flood our streets every rainy season. We’re wasting resources repeatedly clearing the same blockages,” argued one frustrated councillor. The move aligns with broader efforts to modernize the city’s infrastructure and reduce environmental risks.

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.