KCCA slams govt for ignoring sanitation after fatal garbage collapse

Kampala City Council Authority (KCCA) officials are urgently calling out the government for its neglect of urban sanitation, which they believe directly contributed to a recent deadly garbage collapse in Kiteezi that claimed several lives.

Frank Rusa, KCCA's legal advisor, has voiced strong concerns over the government's ongoing failure to address waste management issues.

"The Kiteezi tragedy is a wake-up call. The government must introduce a comprehensive waste collection and disposal policy for Kampala and other cities," Rusa emphasized, warning that without adequate planning, such disasters are likely to repeat.

The Kiteezi disaster, which struck four days ago, has left Kampala streets littered with uncollected garbage. The crisis has been exacerbated by the absence of functional disposal sites.

Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago criticized the government for its persistent neglect of sanitation efforts.

"The lack of funding for sanitation projects over the years has directly led to the deaths in Kiteezi," Lukwago charged.

He lambasted the government's inaction, highlighting that proposed solutions to the city's sanitation woes remain unexecuted due to insufficient funding.

KCCA Deputy Speaker Masaba Nasur and other councilors joined Lukwago in expressing frustration over the sidelining of solid waste management.

They noted that the government only reacts after lives are lost, rather than proactively addressing the problem.

While KCCA's Executive Director and her deputy have yet to comment, Rusa stressed the need for immediate action.

"The government must invest in solid waste management now. The risk of similar tragedies in other cities is high if proper practices are not implemented," he warned.

Amid these concerns, there are rumors that the Inspector General of Government (IGG) is investigating some KCCA employees linked to the Kiteezi incident.

Rusa supports this investigation, calling for accountability.

"Those responsible must face consequences. It is vital to identify and hold negligent parties accountable."

As pressure mounts, the government must decide whether to fund existing waste management proposals or develop new strategies to address Kampala’s sanitation crisis effectively.