The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has demolished two buildings under construction in Nakasero over alleged violations of building regulations. The demolition began around midday on Wednesday along Nakasero Road, near the Kampala Resident District Commissioner’s office. The operation was carried out by KCCA’s enforcement team, backed by police. The buildings were reportedly constructed without approved building plans and on land reserved for roads.
During the operation, police arrested several people found at the site and confiscated construction equipment, including a crane, concrete mixers, and a generator. The building along Nakasero Road was reportedly linked to businessman Hamis Kiggundu, although the ownership claim had not been independently verified. The operation was briefly disrupted when a group of men, locally referred to as kifeesi, reportedly arrived from downtown Kampala and attempted to interfere with the enforcement exercise.
Police and KCCA officials contained the situation, forcing the group to withdraw from the area. The authorities then extended the enforcement operation to Kololo Baskerville Street, where another building under construction was demolished. The second structure was reportedly linked to Chinese nationals, although this claim had also not been independently verified.
The ownership of both demolished structures remains unclear, and KCCA had not, at the time of reporting, provided further details about the specific enforcement notices or orders issued against the developers. The KCCA enforcement team was determined to ensure that building regulations were enforced in the city, particularly in areas where development was rapid.
The demolitions were part of KCCA's efforts to regulate development in Kampala and prevent encroachment on public land. Residents and developers were reminded of the importance of adhering to building regulations and obtaining necessary permits before commencing construction. The incident highlighted the need for developers to verify the ownership and status of land before starting construction.
The KCCA operation was carried out in collaboration with the police, who provided security and support during the enforcement exercise. The authorities were keen to demonstrate their commitment to enforcing the law and maintaining order in the city. The incident was widely reported in local media, with many residents expressing support for the KCCA's efforts to regulate development.
The incident raised concerns about the prevalence of unplanned development in Kampala and the need for effective enforcement of building regulations. The KCCA was expected to continue its efforts to regulate development in the city, with a focus on ensuring that buildings were constructed in accordance with approved plans and zoning regulations. The authority was also expected to work with developers and residents to educate them on the importance of adhering to building regulations.
Key points
- KCCA demolished two buildings in Nakasero due to alleged planning violations.
- The demolitions were part of KCCA's efforts to regulate development in Kampala.
- The incident highlighted the need for developers to verify the ownership and status of land before starting construction.
