Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has ordered the suspension of construction activities at a site owned by Ham Enterprises (U) Ltd, a company led by renowned businessman Hamis Kiggundu.
The directive follows allegations of illegal construction on the Jugula Drainage Channel, located at Plots 26 and 28, Nakivubo.
In a statement issued on November 18, 2024, KCCA cited Section 46 of the Physical Planning Act, 2010, as the basis for its decision.
The authority revealed that on November 11, it had instructed Ham Enterprises to cease construction and restore the drainage channel within seven days.
However, the company reportedly disregarded this order and continued operations without securing the necessary permits.
The construction activities have caused significant environmental and economic consequences. According to KCCA, the obstruction of the Jugula Drainage Channel—an essential waterway that feeds into the Nakivubo Drainage Channel—has resulted in severe flooding at St. Balikuddembe Market, commonly known as Owino Market.
The flooding has disrupted operations, caused financial losses, and created major inconveniences for vendors who depend on the market for their livelihoods.
While Ham Enterprises has defended its position by referencing previously approved building plans from 2017, KCCA clarified that such approvals had expired. As per Section 38 of the Building Control Act, 2013, no development is permitted on drainage channels, making the ongoing activities unlawful.
Owino Market, which supports thousands of traders and plays a critical role in Kampala’s economic ecosystem, has been particularly impacted.
The market is a cornerstone for poverty alleviation in the city, and its functionality is heavily reliant on proper urban planning and flood management systems.
KCCA reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing urban planning and development control laws to protect public safety and promote sustainable development.
The authority has pledged to continue monitoring construction activities across Kampala to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
This latest development places a spotlight on the growing tensions between rapid urban development and environmental conservation in Uganda’s capital. It also raises questions about accountability and adherence to regulatory frameworks, even by prominent figures like Hamis Kiggundu.