Kiteezi Landfill Victims Reject Government’s Plan to Repay for New Houses

BY URN

Residents affected by the Kiteezi landfill collapse are upset with the recent decision by the Prime Minister’s office to offer them new houses to be constructed in Dundu, Mukono, for which they will have to pay the costs in installments.

Last week, the Minister of State for Housing, Percis Namuganza, announced that the government would construct over 600 houses for the victims of the Kiteezi landfill disaster. At least Shs84 billion is expected to be allocated for the construction of three-bedroom houses by Bulwadda Estates Ltd on KCCA land in Dundu, Mukono district.

However, the beneficiaries will be required to repay the costs through deductions from the valuation of their Kiteezi land. This decision has left many victims unhappy, as they feel they were not consulted on whether they prefer houses or compensation, which they have been awaiting for a long time.

Speaking to reporters, some survivors expressed disappointment with the decision, stating that government officials are making choices without considering their opinions.

Gonzanga Nkondwe, one of the Kiteezi survivors, said many of them are frustrated by this decision. Instead of receiving the promised compensation, they are now being told the government plans to construct houses for them on loans.

“We reject the Minister’s plan to construct houses for us,” Gonzanga stated. “We want the government to value our lost properties and provide fair compensation. Once compensated, we will decide where to relocate or, if the landfill is removed, we will remain on our land.”

David Musinguzi, who tragically lost family members in the disaster, also expressed dismay at the government’s decision to construct houses for the affected families, which they will have to pay for in loans.

“My parents worked hard to buy land and build a home for us here,” Musinguzi said. “Now, the government is telling us they will construct houses for us in Mukono, but we must pay loans. This is a mockery. How can we afford to pay loans for houses when our businesses were destroyed? Why can’t they just provide us with compensation so we can take care of ourselves?”

The affected residents are calling on the Office of the Prime Minister to engage with them directly and understand their needs. They urge the government to consult them about their preferences regarding compensation or relocation, rather than imposing a decision.

Many insist that the government adhere to its original plan of providing compensation for their lost properties, which would enable them to start anew wherever they choose, rather than being relocated to Mukono unwillingly.

The devastating tragedy occurred in August 2024 when a garbage dump collapsed, resulting in catastrophic consequences. The disaster claimed the lives of at least 35 people, displaced dozens more, and destroyed valuable property as homes were buried under the rubble.