Uganda Today: Jimmy Ddungu Offers 50 Acres Free to KCCA Amid Landfill Controversy

Kampala, Uganda — Prominent businessman Jimmy Ddungu, the proprietor of Dusion Oils, has made a bold offer to Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) amidst a contentious debate over the procurement of land for a new landfill. Ddungu has pledged to donate 50 acres of land free of charge to KCCA, provided city authorities agree to purchase additional acreage from his estate at a negotiated rate.

In a letter addressed to the Rt. Honourable Prime Minister copied to the Attorney General and his deputy, the Solicitor General, the Minister for Kampala and the Executive Director Kampala Capital City Authority, Mr. Ddungu contends that, besides his neighbour’s land which KCCA wants to buy being far expensive, it is on a slope making it unsuitable for purposes of land fill. He has thus put his case to the prime minister so that government is saved from spending colossal sums of money.

The offer comes in response to KCCA’s ongoing search for a suitable site to replace the Kiteezi landfill, which tragically collapsed in August 2024, claiming dozens of lives and leaving the city grappling with an escalating waste management crisis. The disaster exposed the urgent need for a modern, sustainable landfill to accommodate Kampala’s growing waste burden, prompting city officials to seek alternatives.

The Controversy Surrounding KCCA’s Preferred Land

Despite Ddungu’s proposal, KCCA has indicated its intention to procure land from a different supplier. The alternative property, however, has raised significant concerns. It is not only more expensive than Ddungu’s offer but is also embroiled in legal and environmental disputes. The High Court of Mpigi, under Civil Suit No. 147 of 2024, is currently examining the ownership claims surrounding the land. Both the National Forestry Authority (NFA) and the Ministry of Lands have flagged irregularities in its ownership respectively, further complicating the deal. The ministry of lands has included this land amongst plots of land whose titles are due for cancellation.

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According to Ddungu, the decision to prioritize the competitor’s land could lead to significant financial losses for the government. “Over Shs 10 billion could be wasted if KCCA proceeds with the current purchase,” he warned.

Ddungu’s Offer: A Cost-Effective Solution

In a move he describes as “patriotic and socially responsible,” Ddungu has proposed donating 50 acres of his land to KCCA at no cost. The condition? KCCA must agree to purchase an additional portion of his land at a fair price. He has also extended a one-year grace period for the government to begin payments, acknowledging the financial constraints currently facing the country.

“I informed His Excellency the President of this offer last month,” Ddungu revealed. “This is part of my corporate social responsibility to make Kampala a better place.”

A Call for Accountability

The controversy has sparked public outcry, with many questioning the transparency of KCCA’s decision-making process. Critics argue that Ddungu’s offer presents a financially prudent and environmentally compliant alternative, while the disputed land risks exacerbating legal and financial woes.

The ball now lies in KCCA’s court, as stakeholders eagerly await a decision that could shape the future of waste management in Kampala. With the memory of the Kiteezi tragedy still fresh, citizens are urging authorities to prioritize accountability, sustainability, and fiscal responsibility in their final choice.

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