Mysterious Fire Breaks Out at Closed Kiteezi Dump-Site, Raising Methane Explosion Fears
In such a scenario, water is ineffective as it cannot penetrate the deep-seated pockets of methane combustion. What we need is a systematic layering of murrum soil to cut off oxygen supply to the fire,” one firefighter explained. Lacking the required equipment, the team opted for mechanical suppression techniques, hoping to contain the blaze before it escalates into a catastrophic volcano-like explosion.
Uganda Today Edition: Mysterious Fire Breaks Out at Closed Kiteezi Dump-Site, Raising Methane Explosion Fears
Kampala, Uganda – A mysterious fire has erupted at the summit of the closed Kiteezi dump-site, sparking concerns among environmental experts and city authorities over a potential methane-fueled disaster.
The fire, which broke out on Saturday morning, is suspected to be caused by methane gas combustion beneath the surface of the garbage mountain. Methane, a highly flammable gas produced by decomposing organic waste, has long been a concern at the site, which was officially closed in 2024. The inferno has since sent thick plumes of smoke into the sky, raising alarm among residents of the surrounding areas, including Mpererwe and Kitezi villages.
Fire Brigade’s Challenges in Extinguishing the Blaze
Fire brigade experts who responded to the scene expressed the need for a murrum dosing method to smother the flames rather than the conventional water bowser approach. However, they lamented the lack of the necessary equipment, particularly murrum conveyor belts, to effectively combat the fire.
“In such a scenario, water is ineffective as it cannot penetrate the deep-seated pockets of methane combustion. What we need is a systematic layering of murrum soil to cut off oxygen supply to the fire,” one firefighter explained. Lacking the required equipment, the team opted for mechanical suppression techniques, hoping to contain the blaze before it escalates into a catastrophic volcano-like explosion.
Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago and Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki Inspect the Site
Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago visited the site on Saturday morning to assess the situation. Speaking to journalists, Lukwago criticized city authorities for failing to implement proper landfill decommissioning measures after the site’s closure.
“This disaster was waiting to happen. We have consistently warned about the dangers of methane buildup in Kiteezi, but our calls for sustainable waste management have fallen on deaf ears. Now, we are witnessing the consequences of neglect,” Lukwago stated.
The Lord Mayor urged the central government and Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to take immediate action by securing the necessary equipment and expert intervention to mitigate the looming disaster.
Residents Raise Health Concerns
Residents living near the dump-site have raised concerns over the thick smoke, which they say is causing respiratory problems and eye irritation. The National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) has since deployed a team to assess the air quality in the affected neighborhoods.
“We are experiencing breathing difficulties and severe coughing due to the toxic fumes. The authorities need to act fast before this situation gets out of hand,” said a resident of Kiteezi vicinity.
Experts Warn of a Potential Environmental Catastrophe
Environmentalists warn that if the fire is not contained, it could result in a deadly explosion or prolonged underground fires that would release toxic gases into the atmosphere. Methane explosions at landfill sites have occurred in various parts of the world, leading to widespread destruction and loss of life.
“The buildup of methane gas, if not properly managed, can lead to explosions that send burning debris and toxic gases into the surrounding environment. The government must act swiftly to avoid such a tragedy,” said Dr. Andrew Mugisha, an environmental scientist.
Way Forward: Calls for Long-Term Waste Management Solutions
This latest incident has reignited debates over Kampala’s waste management system. With Kiteezi now closed and the city’s waste temporarily redirected to the Ddundu landfill in Mukono, experts argue that a long-term sustainable waste management plan is urgently needed.
As the firefighting teams work to suppress the blaze, Kampala residents remain on edge, fearing the worst. Whether authorities will rise to the occasion and address the root causes of such environmental threats remains to be seen.
Uganda Today will continue to monitor developments on this story.
📍 Website: https://www.ugandatoday.co.ug/about-cmk
📍 Website: https://www.ugandatoday.co.ug
📱 WhatsApp: +256 702 239 337
🐦 X (formerly Twitter): @uganda43443 | @ugtodaynews (Uganda
📧 Email: ugandatodayedition@gmail.com bit.ly/3REw5gR WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaNLnekInlqV6YbcnQ0d
Let’s help you grow your brand and keep your audience informed. Partner with Uganda Today—where your story matters in shaping the social and economic dynamics of the country.
