Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has ordered businessman Hamis Kiggundu, aka Ham, to stop his ongoing works on the Nakivubo Channel.
In a meeting held today, Friday, August 22, 2025, KCCA officials directed Ham to immediately halt all reconstruction activities being carried out without proper statutory approvals and guidance.
Through his company, Kiham Enterprises Ltd, Ham had already begun work on the project, which aimed to cover and reinforce the channel before constructing commercial buildings on top of it.
KCCA further instructed Ham to clear all debris caused by his activities, restore smooth storm water flow, and ensure the hoarded section of the channel is kept safe to prevent flooding or harm to nearby residents.
Interestingly, President Museveni had earlier expressed support for the project. In a letter dated August 2, 2025, the President tasked Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja to assist Ham in executing what he described as a “godly” initiative.
Museveni noted that leaving the channel open only encourages people to dump garbage, plastics, and even human waste into it, leading to blockages and frequent flooding. He endorsed Ham’s proposal to cover and strengthen the channel while constructing structures on top as a way for him to recover his investment.
However, the plan has sparked heated debate. Opposition figure Winnie Byanyima criticized the move, saying, “Uganda cannot be governed by presidential letters.”
Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago also strongly opposed the project, calling it an unlawful takeover of public property. “Public property (Nakivubo drainage channel) has been fraudulently grabbed by unscrupulous individuals under Ham Enterprises, and you hear some people praising it as development! Ooh Uganda, may God uphold thee…” he said.
