Ugandans have been urged to take action against illegal structures contributing to the worsening flooding situation in Kampala, including demolishing buildings such as Forest Mall in Lugogo.
Michael Nuwagira, popularly known as “Toyota,” and a brother to President Yoweri Museveni, expressed his frustration over the continued approval of constructions in flood-prone areas.
He criticized the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) for issuing permits that allow buildings in areas without proper drainage systems.
“Rain has destroyed a lot of people’s properties. Those who put blame on NRM, it’s wrong. I have those I can blame—starting with KCCA, which gives out plans to build in areas without drainage, and NEMA, which licenses construction in wetlands,” Toyota said.
Citing the situation at Forest Mall, he called for immediate action. “I ask the government to bring that place down immediately. I call upon all Ugandans, if these authorities continue giving out wrong permissions for people to construct without considering proper drainage, let’s break those buildings down.”
He described the situation as “disheartening,” emphasizing that such negligence tarnishes the government’s reputation.
Several areas in Kampala and its surroundings have been severely affected by floods, including Mulago Roundabout, the former Electoral Commission offices, Golf Course Road, areas near Lohana School, and Kawanda along the Gulu-Kampala Highway.
As heavy rains persist, concerns over urban planning and environmental conservation continue to grow, with calls for urgent government intervention.