KCCA Warns Kampala Developers Against Unsafe Construction

What the report says

Kampala Capital City Authority has cautioned developers and property owners against illegal construction and unsafe building practices, including putting up structures without approved plans, installing faulty electrical systems and developing homes in wetlands. The warning, reported by Nile Post, was delivered during the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction commemoration at KCCA headquarters in City Hall, Kampala, under the theme “Resilience Starts at Home.”

According to the report, KCCA officials said these practices increase the risk of floods, building collapses and market fires. Benon Moses Kigenyi, speaking for Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki, said people living in flood-prone parts of the city such as Bwaise, Katanga and Nakivubo face serious danger during heavy rains. He also linked some recent market fires in Kampala to poor wiring and unsafe electrical connections.

KCCA engineer Justus Akankwasa said disaster preparedness starts with proper planning and safe construction, while urging cooperation with the National Environment Management Authority to help address environmental pressures that worsen flooding. KCCA manager Agnes Mugaba said the authority is promoting compliance with construction standards and encouraging community associations to support training on prevention and response.

Representing Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, Judith Nalukwago urged residents to prioritize safety when building homes. The overall message from the event was a call for closer cooperation among city authorities, developers and communities to reduce Kampala’s exposure to fires, floods and other hazards.