Survivors of the Kiteezi landfill collapse have rejected the government’s proposal to construct houses for them in Dundu, Mukono, citing concerns about the repayment terms and lack of consultation.
Last week, the state minister for Housing, Persis Namuganza, announced plans to build over 600 three-bedroom houses for the victims of the tragedy at a cost of Shs 84 billion.
The houses, to be constructed by Bulwadda Estates Ltd on KCCA-owned land in Dundu, Mukono, would require beneficiaries to repay the costs through deductions from the valuation of their land in Kiteezi.
However, the proposal has sparked outrage among the victims, who argue they were not consulted and feel the government has overlooked their longstanding demand for direct compensation.
Gonzanga Nkondwe, a survivor, expressed frustration with the decision: “We reject the minister’s plan to construct houses for us. What we want is 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 own land”
Similarly, David Musinguzi, who lost family members in the disaster, criticized the government’s approach: “My parents worked hard to buy land and build a home for us here,” Musinguzi said.
“Now, the government is telling us that they will construct houses for us in Mukono, but we will have to 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 some compensation, and then we can take care of ourselves?”
The survivors are urging the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) to engage with them directly and understand their needs. They demand the government honour its initial promise of fair compensation rather than forcing relocation and repayment plans upon them.
Many argue that compensation would allow them to choose their path forward, whether relocating or rebuilding in Kiteezi if the landfill is cleared. The Kiteezi landfill collapse in August 2024 was a devastating tragedy. A massive garbage dump gave way, burying homes and claiming at least 35 lives. Dozens more were displaced, and valuable property was destroyed.