KCCA Halts Hamis Kiggundu’s Nakivubo Channel Project Over Regulatory Breach
The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has ordered Kiham Enterprises Uganda Limited, owned by businessman Hajji Dr. Hamis Kiggundu, to immediately suspend all development work along a section of the Nakivubo Channel, citing non-compliance and premature construction activities.
The directive follows concerns raised by KCCA over unapproved works at the proposed development site, even as the project application remains under technical assessment.
“We received an online concept proposal from Kiham Enterprises on February 7, 2025, followed by amendments on March 31. While the Physical Planning Committee was still reviewing the feasibility of the project, the developer proceeded to hoard off the site and began excavations and demolitions,” said Benon Kigenyi, Deputy Executive Director of KCCA, in a letter dated August 20, 2025. The letter was also copied to the Lord Mayor and Minister for Kampala Metropolitan Affairs.
Kigenyi described the planned project as “innovative and futuristic,” but emphasized that its ecological, social, and infrastructural impacts necessitate “a comprehensive, multi-agency evaluation before any ground activity can begin.”
He further highlighted the potential risks posed by the unauthorized works: “Given the location’s sensitivity, these actions are not only premature but also present an immediate risk of flooding and harm to human life.”
In response, KCCA has issued a formal stop order, instructing Kiham Enterprises to remove all debris from the channel, reopen tertiary and secondary drainage lines to ensure free stormwater flow, and maintain the hoarded areas to prevent safety hazards.
“Our technical officers will be on hand to guide the developer’s team and ensure that all work going forward complies with statutory requirements,” Kigenyi added.
While reaffirming KCCA’s dedication to reviewing the project application transparently, Kigenyi cautioned that bypassing procedures would not be tolerated.
“We welcome development initiatives that align with the city’s transformation agenda, but developers must follow due process. Compliance is not optional, it is a legal and civic responsibility,” he concluded.
This move underscores KCCA’s firm stance on ensuring that urban development in Kampala proceeds safely, responsibly, and in full compliance with regulatory frameworks.
