Kampala’s latest flooding incident has once again underscored the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address the city’s drainage and environmental management challenges. The devastation caused by heavy rains, which resulted in significant property damage and traffic paralysis, calls for proactive solutions to prevent future occurrences. Addressing this crisis requires a multifaceted approach that integrates regulatory enforcement, infrastructure improvement, public-private partnerships, community involvement, and enhanced disaster preparedness.
The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has been at the forefront of efforts to transform the city’s drainage and flood management systems. Over the years, infrastructural challenges such as inadequate drainage networks, encroachment on wetlands, and poor waste disposal have exacerbated flooding in key areas. However, KCCA has taken significant steps to improve urban resilience. The authority has expanded major drainage channels, embarked on desilting clogged waterways, and invested in sustainable urban drainage solutions.
One notable initiative is the completion of the Lubigi Drainage Channel, a project under the Second Kampala Institutional and Infrastructure Development Project (KIIDP II). The project, which has been delayed due to disputes among beneficiaries and challenges in obtaining Tax Identification Numbers (TINs), is crucial in mitigating persistent flooding in Kampala. KCCA Executive Director, Sharifah Buzeki, has assured the World Bank that there will be no further delays in the completion of the project (KCCA, 2025).
A critical step in mitigating urban flooding is ensuring strict compliance with environmental and construction regulations. KCCA, in collaboration with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), must enhance oversight to ensure all developments adhere to approved drainage plans. Many commercial structures, particularly those in flood-prone areas like Lugogo, require thorough environmental impact assessments before approval. Existing buildings that do not meet the required environmental standards should be reviewed and, where necessary, adjusted to align with sustainable urban planning principles.
Improving drainage infrastructure remains a priority. While KCCA has rehabilitated several drainage channels, persistent flooding issues highlight the need for further expansion and maintenance. Unclogging existing channels, constructing additional drainage networks, and investing in innovative urban drainage solutions will significantly reduce the risk of waterlogging.
Public and private developers must collaborate to implement eco-friendly designs that enhance water absorption and runoff management. Incorporating permeable pavements, rainwater harvesting systems, and green spaces into urban development will not only improve drainage efficiency but also contribute to a healthier urban environment.
A sustainable approach to addressing flooding also requires strong public-private partnerships. Stakeholders, including property developers, government agencies, and urban planners, must work together to create resilient urban development models. Property owners in commercial hubs such as Lugogo should be incentivized to incorporate green infrastructure solutions into their buildings.
Beyond structural interventions, flood prevention is a shared responsibility that necessitates community involvement and awareness. Educating the public on proper waste disposal, the dangers of encroaching on wetlands, and the importance of preserving natural drainage pathways will help mitigate urban flooding.
In addition to long-term prevention strategies, Kampala needs an improved emergency response system to handle flooding incidents effectively. Establishing a city-wide flood monitoring and early warning system can help mitigate the impact of heavy rains by allowing timely interventions.
In conclusion, the recent flooding in Kampala should serve as a wake-up call for all stakeholders to take urgent action. Rather than resorting to reactive and often destructive measures, a proactive and collaborative approach is necessary to create a sustainable urban future.
References:
Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). (2025). KCCA Assures World Bank of No Further Delays in Lubigi Drainage Channel Completion. https://www.kcca.go.ug/news/916/
