The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has allocated substantial funds to maintain the city’s green areas. However, the continuous encroachment on these public spaces has raised concerns about the city’s path to smart urban development.
The lush designated yards meant to beautify Kampala have fallen prey to trespassers who seem unfazed by potential legal consequences. Trespassing in these green areas violates the Maintenance of Law and Order law governing Kampala City’s administration. Offenders could face imprisonment or be required to clean the affected yard as a penalty.
A simple walk around Kampala City reveals the extent of this issue, with many yards marred by trespassers engaging in various activities, from eating and sleeping to obstructing pedestrian walkways.
During our attempt to speak with some of these trespassers along Namirembe Road, a common theme emerged – ignorance of the rules governing public spaces in Kampala City.
In response to this growing concern, Landscape Supervisor Isaac Mugumbule from KCCA mentioned that financial constraints have hindered enforcement efforts, despite attempts to address issues related to street children.
Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura expressed her lack of surprise at this problem and criticized the government’s leadership, particularly its focus on street children at the expense of other pressing urban challenges.
As the people of Kampala witness their city’s struggle with cleanliness and orderliness despite significant funding, they raise a pressing question: Does the KCCA leadership only see street hawkers as the city’s sole problem?
The dream of a smart and organized Kampala City, once envisioned by its leaders, now appears uncertain as the trespassing issue continues to hinder these aspirations.
