(Kiteezi) – The Kiteezi camp, which provided temporary shelter for families affected by the landfill disaster on August 10, 2024, has officially closed. The Minister of State for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, Hon. Lillian Aber, announced the closure after two months of operation.
The camp had been home to 171 households, providing refuge for those displaced by the disaster. During the official decommissioning ceremony, Hon. Minsa Kabanda, the Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, represented Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja. Kabanda informed the families that they would have one week to vacate the site and resettle to safer locations.
As part of the support package, each family received Shillings 2 million from the government to assist in their relocation. On Friday, Minister Aber distributed additional relief items, which included essentials such as sugar, posho, cooking oil, beans, and blankets. This was aimed at easing the transition for those affected by the disaster.
| Aid Provided | Description | Amount/Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Monetary Assistance | Support for resettlement | Shillings 2 million per household |
| Essential Relief Package | Food and basic necessities | Sugar, posho, cooking oil, beans, blankets |
| School Support | Materials for classroom repairs | 350 iron sheets and Shs 500,000 for teachers |
During her address, Minister Aber conveyed sympathy from the President and urged patience as the government processes compensation for landlords affected by the disaster. She recognized the resilience of the Kiteezi community and encouraged landlords to accept the food aid being provided.
“The issue with landlords requires careful evaluation. Surveys are currently being conducted to address specific concerns. I want to reassure the landlords that their issues will be resolved, and I encourage you to trust Government in this process,” Aber stated.
Hon. Aber also mentioned plans to work with the Minister of Health to provide mosquito nets to residents. This initiative aims to reduce the risk of malaria outbreaks due to water logging in the area.
Local Council Chairperson Geoffrey Zzake expressed concerns regarding health risks from water logging, emphasizing the need for urgent support to protect the community from malaria.
Additionally, Olive Nandawula, the Head Teacher of Kiteezi C.O.U Primary School, requested government assistance for repairs to five classrooms in poor condition. In response, Minister Aber pledged to provide 350 iron sheets for the school, which had supported the IDP camp, and promised Shs 500,000 to the teachers at the school.
