IGG Exposes Shocking Defects in Kampala Apartments. List of Unsafe Apartments Published.

IGG Blasts Kampala Condominium Developers

The Inspector General of Government (IGG) has identified several condominium apartments in Kampala that were sold to buyers under false pretenses, revealing them to be poorly constructed and maintained. These findings have raised significant concerns for the safety and well-being of the occupants, many of whom are Ugandans living abroad.

The investigation was prompted by a series of complaints from both local and diaspora Ugandans. Many of these buyers expressed disappointment and frustration, having invested in properties that did not meet their expectations. The situation is particularly troubling for Ugandans in the diaspora, who had hoped to avoid the challenges of dealing with unscrupulous relatives by purchasing condominiums from reputable developers, only to find themselves facing similar issues.

Following these complaints, the IGG convened a meeting in October 2023, bringing together both state and non-state actors, including buyers, developers, and regulators in the building industry. However, despite the involvement of government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), little action was taken to address the concerns of the affected Ugandans.

During a meeting on August 22, 2024, IGG Betty Kamya criticized the regulatory agencies for failing to protect consumers from unscrupulous developers. She emphasized the importance of holding these agencies accountable for their inaction, warning of repercussions for those who neglect their responsibilities.

The IGG’s investigation focused on seven apartment complexes: Swan Residence, Leo Zodiac, Lotus Vicinia, Waves, Hazel Apartments, and Casa Marcella. The findings from these inspections revealed a range of serious issues, including structural defects, poor drainage, faulty plumbing, and inadequate maintenance.

At Swan Residence, located on Kireka-Namugongo Road, homebuyers reported that they were forced to move into unfinished apartments and had to undertake significant repairs themselves. The inspection uncovered cracks in the exterior walls, shoddy drainage systems, and a faulty gate. Additionally, the swimming pool, located beneath one of the blocks, was found to pose a risk to the building’s structural integrity due to cracks in the supporting columns. Waste management at the residence was also inadequate, with only one small disposal bin provided for all residents.

Leo Zodiac Apartments in Najjeera faced similar issues, with visible cracks on exterior walls and poor drainage leading to flooding during heavy rain. The roof was reported to leak, causing damage to the interior ceilings. Homeowners also complained of poor-quality fittings that had to be replaced at their own expense. In addition, the plumbing system was found to be faulty, with sewage leaking into a neighboring compound.

Lotus Vicinia, another complex in Najjeera, was found to have poorly done electrical wiring, with exposed wires posing a safety hazard. Residents also reported deep cracks in the walls, faulty doors and windows, and inadequate facilities for children and those with mobility challenges. The drainage system was so poorly designed that the compound flooded during heavy rains, forcing residents to wade through water to access their homes.

At Waves in Kungu, Kira Municipality, residents reported frequent water leaks from the roof, causing damage to the interior walls and ceilings. The drainage system was also inadequate, leading to flooding in the compound. The homebuyers were forced to rectify these issues at their own expense.

Hazel Apartments in Naalya faced significant sewage and plumbing problems, with leaks and overflows affecting multiple units. The biodigester was found to be non-functional, and residents had to collect money to construct a new one. Poor wiring and inadequate ventilation further compounded the issues.

Finally, Casa Marcella in Naalya was plagued by dampness in the walls, leading to peeling paint and water leaks from electrical sockets. The roofs were found to leak, causing damage to the ceilings. Despite attempts by homeowners to renovate their apartments, the structural issues persisted, with cracks and peeling paint evident throughout the complex.

The IGG’s report highlights a systemic failure by regulatory agencies to protect consumers from substandard housing developments. The lack of enforcement and oversight has left many Ugandans vulnerable to exploitation by unscrupulous developers, with potentially life-threatening consequences. As the IGG continues to push for accountability, it remains to be seen whether the relevant authorities will take the necessary steps to address these issues and ensure the safety of residents.

Table: Summary of IGG Findings on Kampala Condominiums