Kampala Central Member of Parliament, Muhammad Nsereko, has called on government authorities to undertake an urgent and comprehensive upgrade of Kampala’s drainage system following severe flash floods that have paralysed parts of the capital.
Speaking during Sanyuka One on One on Wednesday, Nsereko who is also the president of the Ecological Party of Uganda (EPU), expressed sympathy for traders and residents who have suffered heavy losses as a result of the flooding.
“Honestly, I feel heartbroken for those who lost their property and money, and I pray that God gives them strength. It’s especially devastating for traders working in basements who have once again suffered heavy losses,” he said.
Nsereko underscored that for more than a decade in Parliament, he has repeatedly urged the government to prioritize investment in drainage infrastructure.
“Throughout my ten years in Parliament, I repeatedly called on the government to invest in improving, expanding, and maintaining the city’s drainage system,” he noted.
Nsereko also addressed growing public criticism linking the recent floods to the ongoing Nakivubo redevelopment project led by businessman Hamis Kiggundu (Ham). While traders and critics argue the project may have interfered with natural water channels, Nsereko cautioned against placing individual blame.
“Is he the one causing the rain to fall? In previous years, was Ham responsible for causing the floods. You can’t blame Ham for this. The only solution is that Kampala needs a comprehensive, well-implemented drainage plan,” he said.
Nsereko added that Kampala’s unique geography must be central to future planning efforts.
“The city was built on seven hills and has since expanded, so the drainage master plan must take this into account.”
Beyond drainage infrastructure, Nsereko criticized the lack of civic engagement and long-term planning in the city.
“We are living in a community that doesn’t understand what’s happening in the world and shows little interest in seeking change. They don’t even inquire about tax plans,” he said.
Nsereko also reiterated his long-standing advocacy for liberalizing railway transport to boost national logistics and trade.
“If railway transport were liberalized, it could become one of the most profitable businesses in Uganda. In terms of commerce, we could become a major hub in the railway cargo industry in East Africa,” he said.
Nsereko’s remarks come as persistent torrential rains continue to overwhelm Kampala’s drainage systems. Widespread flooding has hit the Central Business District and low-lying suburbs such as Kisenyi, Katwe, Bwaise, and areas along the Nakivubo Channel. Markets, business centres, and major roadways remain submerged, severely affecting transport and trade and prompting urgent calls for government intervention.
Nsereko’s comments amplify public pressure on key agencies — including the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and the Ministry of Water and Environment — to accelerate infrastructure upgrades, enforce urban planning standards, and provide relief to affected communities.