Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has called for the prosecution of city tycoon Hamis Kiggundu, owner of Ham Enterprises (U) Ltd, over illegal construction on a drainage channel that has exacerbated flooding in the city.
This comes as the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) escalates enforcement actions against the company, citing blatant defiance of multiple stop orders.
Lukwago’s Stern Warning
In a fiery statement following devastating floods in parts of Kampala last week that left seven people dead, Lukwago accused Kiggundu of “environmental sabotage” for allegedly constructing a commercial building over the Jugula drainage channel in Nakivubu, Central Division.
“This impunity must end! Hamis Kiggundu and his company have ignored KCCA directives, blocked enforcement officers, and worsened flooding. He must be arrested and the illegal structure demolished,” Lukwago declared.
KCCA’s Enforcement Battle
Internal KCCA documents reveal that Ham Enterprises was served an Enforcement Notice (Serial No. 0669) on 11th November 2024, ordering an immediate halt to construction and submission of approved building plans.
However, inspectors reported that work continued “with impunity,” reaching the first-floor slab stage despite warnings.
A stop order issued by KCCA’s Building Inspectors was outrightly rejected by Ham Enterprises’ site team, who refused to acknowledge receipt. The developer allegedly cited outdated approvals for unrelated projects, including the Nakiyubu stadium, but KCCA insists these do not cover the contested site.
Flood Risks and Public Outcry
According to the documents, the illegal construction blocks the Jugula drainage channel, a critical waterway near St. Balikuddembe Market. Residents blame such encroachments for recurrent floods, with recent downpours submerging homes and businesses.
“Every rainy season, we suffer because rich people build wherever they want. KCCA must act now ” said a Nakivubu trader.
KCCA’s Next Steps
KCCA’s Directorate of Engineering has recommended:
1. Forced stoppage of construction using security forces.
2. Prosecution of Hamis Kiggundu under the Building Control Act 2013.
3. Demolition of the structure under the Physical Planning Act.
Vincent B. Byendairn & Tocmock, KCCA’s Director of Physical Planning, warned that further defiance would attract “swift enforcement without notice.”
Ham Enterprises’ Silence
Hamis Kiggundu has not publicly responded to Lukwago’s arrest demand or KCCA’s latest actions. His company previously sued KCCA over land disputes, signaling a protracted legal battle ahead.
The standoff highlights Kampala’s wider struggle against unauthorized construction, with Lukwago vowing to pursue similar cases. “No one is above the law, no matter how connected,” he asserted.
