The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has denied claims that it approved businessman Hamis Kiggundu’s ambitious plan to upgrade the Nakivubo drainage channel in Kampala.
NEMA’s executive director, Barirega Akankwasa, told MPs on Defence and Internal Affairs Committee in Parliament that there were still environmental and social impact studies to be done before the project can be given a go ahead.
“Currently, they are only removing debris and soil from the existing channel,” he said. “The full upgrade, such as covering it, has not started because KCCA and NEMA have not approved the designs or assessed the environmental impact.”
He said NEMA has received only preliminary project details and is still reviewing them. No final approval has been granted.
Kiggundu, through his company Kiham Enterprises, aims to clean, cover, and reinforce a section of the Nakivubo Channel, a critical drainage system for preventing flooding in Kampala.
The proposal includes constructing shops or malls atop the covered channel to recoup costs.
Akankwasa refuted claims that NEMA is delaying urban projects, explaining that environmental and social impact assessments require at least 60 days.
“We’ve streamlined our processes with digital systems,” he said. “For this project, we completed the initial review and are awaiting their formal approval request. There’s no delay on our part.” He emphasised that NEMA thoroughly evaluates projects, particularly those impacting Kampala’s flood control.
“Some buildings in the city are poorly located, exacerbating climate change issues,” he noted. “We assess future risks. If risks can be mitigated, we approve with conditions. If not, we reject to ensure safety.”
Environmental experts and local leaders have raised concerns about the plan. Some say covering the channel could restrict water flow, potentially worsening flooding, and complicate silt removal during heavy rains.
Kampala Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago, has argued that state agencies are being sidelined, warning that the President’s directive could undermine regulatory frameworks. Questions also persist about public consultation and whether the project was awarded through a transparent bidding process.
Akankwasa issued a stern warning to developers flouting regulations, particularly those operating covertly at night.
“Some dump soil or build without permission after dark,” he said. “We are increasing surveillance, including at night, and will demolish unapproved structures. Violating regulations is futile. Protecting wetlands and the environment benefits all Ugandans and the global community.”
This development places Kiggundu’s project in a precarious position. Despite presidential support, the lack of NEMA and KCCA approvals means major work cannot commence imminently. For Kiggundu, the path forward hinges on submitting comprehensive plans and passing NEMA’s environmental review.
If the project demonstrates minimal environmental harm, it may gain approval however, if concerns about flooding and transparency persist, the plan could face alterations or outright rejection.
