Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Executive Director Dorothy Kitaka has come under increased pressure on social media following the revelation that her office had been informed about a looming Kiteezi disaster.
On Wednesday morning, a report by the Directorate of Public Health at KCCA made rounds on social media. This report revealed the challenges facing the landfill.
“On 28th June, cracks and waste slides were observed in the north-eastern part of the landfill. Consequently, waste movement has blocked the main drainage channel. This has caused leachate and flooding in the neighboring farm. The area of operation has reduced due to the above issues and compromised the working surface,” the Directorate of Public Health report read in part.
Kiteezi danger predicted
Dr. Daniel Ayen Okello, Director of Public Health and Environment at KCCA, informed the director that the site was a danger zone on 4th July 2024. He pointed out that significant cracks and waste slides were observed in the north-eastern section of the site. These were reportedly blocking the main drainage channel and causing leachate to flood nearby areas.
The Dr. Okello report also foretold doom if the authority didn’t act swiftly. The Directorate of Public Health warned that loss of life was imminent should the landfill collapse.
“If the current situation persists, we face serious risks, including litigation for damages. Halted waste operations could trigger public unrest. Moreover, illegal dumping may increase, creating further environmental and financial challenges.” the Directorate of Public Health report warned.
In the report, the department demanded immediate action to prevent a looming disaster. That wasn’t to be as a section of the landfill gave way on Saturday morning. The garbage slide buried a number of houses, killing over 20 individuals and leaving tens injured.
Social media users have since called out the leadership of the authority for not acting on the intel.
“It’s heartbreaking to know that the KCCA executive was aware of the impending disaster just a few months ago and did nothing. And what hurts the most is no one is going to be held accountable for it. Very unfortunate. May God grant the deceased eternal rest.” Patrick Salvador, comedian, said.
By press time, KCCA alongside security operatives were still carrying out rescue services four days later.
Discover more from Ugandan Exclusive
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
