Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has urged developers, homeowners and property owners to prioritise safety in construction as the city continues to face disaster risks, including flooding, building collapses and market fires.
The call was made during the commemoration of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction at KCCA headquarters in City Hall, Kampala, under the theme “Resilience Starts at Home.”
Representing the Executive Director, Benon Moses Kigenyi warned that residents living in flood-prone areas, including Bwaise, Katanga and the Nakivubo area, face the risk of drowning during heavy rains.
Kigenyi also raised concerns about market fires reported in the city over the past 12 months, noting that poor electrical wiring and unsafe electrical connections can cause extensive property damage and loss of life.
He cautioned developers against constructing buildings without plans approved by KCCA, warning that unauthorised construction exposes occupants to serious safety risks. He also discouraged the construction of homes in wetlands and the establishment of rental units without proper toilet facilities, saying such practices threaten public safety and undermine urban planning standards.
Speaking at the event, Engineer Justus Akankwasa said disaster preparedness begins with ensuring that homes are safe and properly constructed.
He identified flooding as one of Kampala’s major disaster risks and called for support from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) to address environmental challenges contributing to the city’s vulnerability.
Akankwasa said KCCA’s strategy focuses on proper planning, supervision and compliance with construction standards to protect communities from disasters. He urged developers and property owners to work closely with the relevant authorities to identify potential risks before they escalate into emergencies.
Meanwhile, KCCA Manager Agnes Mugaba said the authority had undertaken initiatives to promote compliance with construction standards and encourage the development of infrastructure capable of reducing disaster risks.
Mugaba added that KCCA was encouraging residents to establish community associations to facilitate training in disaster prevention, preparedness and response.
Representing the Lord Mayor, Judith Nalukwago urged residents to take personal responsibility for their safety by preparing for disasters and investing in safer homes.
She emphasised that safety should be a priority when constructing homes rather than focusing solely on affordability. She added that the Lord Mayor’s office would work with stakeholders to strengthen disaster prevention efforts across Kampala.
The commemoration highlighted the need for collective action by city authorities, developers and residents to reduce disaster risks, protect lives and property, and build a safer, more resilient Kampala.