Outspoken political analyst and Vice Chairperson of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) for the Central Region, Frank Gashumba, has issued a strong call for environmental responsibility, regulatory reform, and emergency support for traders affected by the recent severe flooding in Kampala.
Speaking NBS Barometer on Tuesday, Gashumba expressed deep sympathy for those whose businesses and property were destroyed by flash floods in the capital's central business district.
“We feel deep pain for the people whose property was destroyed by the floods downtown. In all the time I have been in Kampala, we have had flooding before, but it had never caused this level of destruction,” Gashumba said.
Kampala has endured weeks of heavy rains leading to widespread flooding that submerged roads, markets, and commercial buildings—particularly in Kisenyi, Katwe, Bwaise, and areas surrounding Nakivubo Channel, which is currently being redeveloped by businessman Hamis Kiggundu (Ham).
Numerous concerns have emerged from the public and stakeholders alleging that the redevelopment works have interfered with natural water flow.
Gashumba stressed that proper environmental planning and review should have preceded any construction works on the drainage system.
“We should’ve conducted an Environmental Impact Assessment Report for about two years to study the effects of the drainage channel before any construction took place. Yes, we all want development in Kampala, but we must also consider the environment and our surroundings,” he said.
“I am happy that Ham was remorseful today, and agreed to work with KCCA’s technical wing,” he added, referencing the businessman’s public commitment to cooperate with city authorities.
Gashumba used the platform to highlight broader governance challenges affecting Kampala’s stability, including issues with landlords and fragmented authority across the city.
“Another issue we have in Kampala is the untouchable landlords. How can a tenant rent a building and still have to pay to use the toilet? Tenants are even charged fees for generators that never work. Kampala will never stabilize as long as there are still over 15 power centre’s,” he said.
Calling for urgent government support and long-term planning, Gashumba encouraged affected business owners to seek compensation and consider relocating from high-risk areas.
“My advice to those affected by the floods is to get that compensation from the government however small and to relocate, because more flooding is coming.”
Gashumba’s remarks come amid increasing public pressure on government agencies, including the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and the Ministry of Water and Environment, to accelerate drainage upgrades and provide relief to traders whose livelihoods have been disrupted.
