KAMPALA – Former Kawempe North MP by-election candidate Hanifah Karadi has strongly criticised the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) over blocked drainage and sewer lines, which she says have worsened the impact of the recent devastating floods.
Heavy rains on Tuesday wreaked havoc across Kampala suburbs, including Kawempe Division, leaving residents counting losses. Homes were destroyed, property was swept away, and lives were tragically lost in the disaster.
Days after the catastrophe, many residents in Kisenyi and Katale Zone, Kyebando, remain homeless, struggling to find food for their children as they wait for government aid.
With the rainy season just beginning, affected families are growing increasingly desperate. Some have called on the Office of the Prime Minister to relocate them to safer areas until proper drainage and sewer channels are put in place.
In a gesture of support, Karadi visited the affected communities, providing essential relief items, including rice, soap, and sugar.
The donations, though temporary, offered a glimmer of hope to those grappling with the aftermath of the floods.
Speaking during her visit, Karadi urged KCCA to urgently clear clogged drainage and sewer channels as a temporary measure to mitigate further flooding.
“Look at most of these drainage channels—they are blocked with waste and soil carried by erosion when it rains. At the very least, KCCA should clear them while we await funding for a permanent solution,” she stated.
She also appealed to residents to be more responsible in waste disposal, particularly avoiding the reckless dumping of plastics, which she noted is a major cause of blocked drainage systems.
Meanwhile, Red Cross and other volunteer groups have been the only organizations providing immediate aid to the flood victims.
Residents are still awaiting government assistance, as promised by State Minister for Disaster Preparedness Lillian Aber.
With more rains expected, the need for immediate intervention remains critical to prevent further loss of life and property in the city.