Dr. Hamis Kiggundu Transforms Nakivubo Channel Into A Modern Urban Legacy.

Dr. Hamis Kiggundu is redeveloping Kampala’s Nakivubo Channel into a modern, eco-friendly urban corridor.  

In a bold and visionary move, renowned Ugandan businessman and philanthropist Dr. Hamis Kiggundu, popularly known as Ham, has embarked on a transformative project to redevelop Kampala’s notorious Nakivubo Channel. Once a symbol of neglect, flooding, and insecurity, the channel is now being reborn as a modern, eco-friendly urban corridor, thanks to Dr. Kiggundu’s leadership and partnership with the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). This ambitious initiative not only addresses long-standing urban challenges but also positions Uganda as a forward-thinking nation ready to host the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027.  

 
For decades, the Nakivubo Channel has been a pressing urban crisis, cutting through Kampala’s bustling central business district. Open sewage, industrial waste, and rampant pollution have turned it into a hazardous trench, causing devastating floods during heavy rains and serving as a hideout for criminals. Tragically, over 100 lives have been lost in recent years due to accidents and insecurity linked to the channel. Dr. Kiggundu has described it as a "dark symbol of neglect," underscoring the urgent need for intervention.  

Dr. Kiggundu’s redevelopment plan is nothing short of revolutionary. The project, funded through his private investment, aims to replace the open channel with a state-of-the-art drainage system featuring underground flood-control chambers, advanced waste filtration, pedestrian walkways, and lush green public spaces. This transformation will not only mitigate flooding and improve sanitation but also create a vibrant, safe, and aesthetically pleasing urban environment. The design aligns with smart city principles, turning what was once an eyesore into a showcase of modern infrastructure and sustainability .  

The timing of this project is pivotal, as Uganda prepares to co-host AFCON 2027. Officials from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) have lauded the progress, emphasising that upgrading Nakivubo Channel to international standards is critical for Kampala’s readiness to welcome the continent’s biggest football tournament. Dr. Kiggundu has framed the project as a matter of national pride, proving that Uganda can achieve world-class development through local initiative rather than reliance on foreign aid.  

 
 
The collaboration between Dr. Kiggundu and KCCA exemplifies the power of public-private partnerships in driving urban renewal. KCCA has provided technical oversight, ensuring the project aligns with the city’s broader drainage master plan. A KCCA official praised the initiative, stating that it goes beyond AFCON—it is about leaving a lasting legacy of safety, beauty, and functionality for Kampala’s residents. For traders and communities long plagued by floods, the project promises a new era of stability and opportunity.  

 
  
Despite its widespread acclaim, the project has faced opposition, notably from Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who has labelled it as "fraudulent." However, experts and residents argue that the redevelopment addresses systemic issues overlooked by political detractors. Dr. Kiggundu has remained steadfast, emphasising that the initiative is a "responsibility we owe our people" and a testament to Uganda’s readiness for the future.  

As the Nakivubo Channel transformation gains momentum, Dr. Hamis Kiggundu’s legacy as a transformative leader grows stronger. His commitment to national development, community welfare, and sustainable urban planning sets a benchmark for future projects. When completed, the new Nakivubo will stand as a symbol of what visionary leadership and local investment can achieve—a cleaner, safer, and prouder Kampala, ready to shine on the continental stage.