Kampala City Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has announced a severe garbage crisis in the city, revealing that the Kiteezi site is currently holding 2,500 tonnes of waste. This situation has persisted for three days and has led to urgent calls for finding a new dump site.
Lukwago made these comments on August 12, 2024, during a meeting at Kiteezi Police Station. The meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, included key figures such as Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Executive Director Dorothy Kisaka, Disaster State Minister Lillian Aber, Kampala State Minister Kabuye Kyoffatogabye, Kyadondo Member of Parliament Muwada Nkunyigi, and KCCA Deputy Executive Director David Luyimbazi.
In his remarks, Lukwago emphasized the immediate need to find an alternative dumping location and stated that accountability for the disaster must be established. He asserted that even if he were found responsible, he would accept accountability.
During the same meeting, Lukwago suggested that the government should create a peaceful relocation plan for those affected by the garbage slide and those at risk. The Kiteezi garbage collapse has claimed over 20 lives, which prompted a coordination meeting led by Prime Minister Nabbanja.
Following the meeting, Prime Minister Nabbanja toured the Kiteezi site to assess the damage. The Office of the Prime Minister has allocated 4,000 kilograms of maize flour, beans, tarpaulins, and solar lights to support those displaced by the disaster.
Disaster State Minister Lillian Aber confirmed that adequate manpower is on the ground to address the crisis. Relief efforts are being organized by the Uganda Red Cross Society and other officials to aid the victims.
The situation remains critical as authorities work to manage the ongoing garbage problem and provide support to those affected.
