A recent report by the Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) has implicated two Kampala ministers and the Permanent Secretary to the Treasury (PSST), Ramathan Ggoobi, in the Kiteezi Landfill disaster.
The report attributes part of the blame to the ministers, citing lapses in oversight and poor management of the waste disposal crisis at Kiteezi, which has put residents’ health and safety at risk.
The COSASE report also holds PSST Ggoobi accountable for failing to release the necessary funds for the decommissioning of the Kiteezi Landfill, an essential step in addressing the longstanding waste management issues. Despite calls for intervention, the funds were allegedly withheld, delaying the closure of the site and aggravating the hazardous conditions in the area.
Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago criticised the government’s inaction, emphasising the urgent need to rectify the situation. “This failure has put countless lives at risk and represents a severe neglect of duty,” Lukwago stated, calling for accountability.
The Kiteezi Landfill has faced significant challenges over the years, including toxic waste build-up and safety risks for nearby communities. The COSASE report has now intensified pressure on the implicated officials to address these critical issues.