Gov’t Will Not Compensate Those Affected By Floods Because It Was Never Caused By Nakivubo Drainage Channels – Minister Tells Off Kampala Downtown Traders

The government has issued a strong warning to Kampala traders, telling them not to expect compensation for losses they may suffer from flooding during the upcoming rainy season.

Minister of State for Kampala City Affairs Christopher Kabuye Kyofatogabye said traders and business owners must take responsibility for protecting their property as the city prepares for potentially heavy rains between August and December 2026.

The minister said government investigations had established that the recent flooding experienced in parts of Kampala was not caused by the Nakivubo drainage channels, despite repeated complaints from downtown traders.

For years, traders operating in Kampala’s central business district have blamed blocked and inadequate drainage systems for flooding that frequently damages merchandise and disrupts business activities.

However, Kyofatogabye maintained that the causes of flooding are wider and include developments that have interfered with natural water channels and wetlands across the city.

He explained that some landlords and developers have constructed buildings and other structures in areas that were previously used as natural pathways for rainwater.

According to the minister, such developments have made it difficult for water to flow freely whenever Kampala receives heavy rainfall, contributing to flooding in different parts of the city.

Kyofatogabye therefore warned traders to prepare for the rainy season instead of relying on government compensation whenever their businesses are affected by floods.

He stressed that the government’s position is that it will not compensate business owners for flood-related losses, urging them to take preventive measures to protect their property and merchandise.

The warning comes at a time when Kampala continues to experience serious flooding challenges, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.

The flooding problem has often been linked to several factors, including rapid urbanisation, poor waste disposal, blocked drainage systems and construction in areas that interfere with water movement.

The minister also pointed to construction on wetlands and water sources as one of the major challenges making it difficult for rainwater to find its natural way through the city.

He said authorities are continuing to work on drainage infrastructure while also addressing illegal developments and other activities that contribute to flooding.

Kyofatogabye praised businessman Hamis Kiggundu for working with government agencies to clear parts of the Nakivubo drainage system.

He said the work carried out on the drainage channels has improved water movement and helped reduce some of the challenges previously experienced in the area.

However, the minister noted that more challenges remain, particularly in areas where buildings and other structures have been established along natural water channels.

He called on landlords, developers and residents to cooperate with authorities and avoid activities that could worsen Kampala’s flooding problem.

Traders were also encouraged to monitor weather conditions and take early precautions whenever heavy rainfall is expected, rather than waiting for floods to occur.

The government has continued to call for better planning and responsible development as Kampala expands and more people settle and conduct business within the city.

Kyofatogabye maintained that preventing flood damage requires joint responsibility between government, property owners, traders and residents, warning that those who ignore the risks should not expect compensation for their losses.