FDC Raises Alarm Over Fire Crisis at Kitezi Landfill

The opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has expressed concern over the unfolding crisis at Kitezi Landfill, which caught fire on Saturday morning.

According to John Kikonyogo, the FDC Najjanankumbi spokesperson, they are worried that if not addressed comprehensively, the fire could lead to a volcano-like explosion.

“Fire brigade experts recommended using a murram dosing method instead of water, but unfortunately, KCCA lacked the necessary equipment, such as murram conveyor belts. Experts had previously warned that Kitezi was at high risk of such an incident due to the large volume of decomposing waste and the absence of proper landfill gas management systems,” said Kikonyogo.

He explained that the Kitezi landfill, which served as Kampala’s main dumpsite for decades, has become an increasing environmental and public safety hazard. Initially designed to handle far less waste than it eventually received, the site exceeded its capacity years ago, leading to poor waste management practices and dangerous levels of methane buildup.

On August 9, 2024, a tragic collapse at the dumpsite resulted in multiple deaths, prompting renewed calls for better waste management systems in the city. The site was officially closed after the incident, but concerns remain over lingering risks, including methane pockets that could ignite and cause explosions.

“The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has been vocal in its demands for a comprehensive plan to handle the issue and provide compensation to the victims. The government failed to prevent the tragedy despite warnings about the limited space at the landfill site. The FDC is calling on the government to take responsibility and provide adequate compensation to the victims, rather than the paltry UGX 2 million initially offered,” Kikonyogo added.

The party also called for fair and adequate compensation for the victims and their families. They expressed disappointment over the government’s unfulfilled promises, which have left the victims living in constant fear for their lives.

“Many residents insist they will not vacate the area until they receive compensation, stating they have nowhere else to go. We call for improved waste management practices to prevent similar incidents.”

It is believed that the fire was triggered by methane gas combustion beneath the landfill’s surface, a common but dangerous phenomenon in ageing and overburdened dumpsites.