The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Executive Director Dorothy Kisaka, alongside her management team, visited survivors of Kiteezi landfill collapse at the Emergency Response Centre following a recent tragedy that has left the city reeling.
The visit, which was deeply rooted in Ugandan tradition, offered much-needed emotional support to the survivors and paid homage to those who lost their lives.
The event commenced with prayers, first by Catholic clergy and followed by Anglican faith leaders, setting a somber yet hopeful tone. The KCCA team, led by Kisaka, joined the survivors in a tent where they sang hymns and prayed under the guidance of the local vicar. The atmosphere was one of shared grief and communal healing.
In her heartfelt address, Kisaka extended her deepest condolences to the survivors, urging them to cling to their faith during this challenging time. “We must hold onto faith in this storm,” she said, as she embraced the survivors, allowing them to share their stories of survival and loss. The emotional connection was palpable as Kisaka listened intently, offering comfort and solidarity to those affected.
To date, 266 survivors have been gathered at the Emergency Response Centre. The tragedy has claimed 35 lives, with 18 people miraculously rescued from the rubble. Kisaka’s visit, along with the KCCA Directors and Deputy Directors—including Sheila Birungi, Grace Akullo, and Vincent Byendiramawas a touching gesture, reinforcing the importance of community and compassion in the face of adversity.
Representatives of the Lord Mayor, Hon. John Mary Sebuwufu, and Oliver Namazzi, also joined the visit. Kisaka emphasized the cultural significance of their actions, explaining that in Ugandan tradition, it is customary to share a meal with the bereaved and offer comfort in their time of need. She expressed gratitude to the broader Kampala community for their overwhelming support during this difficult period.
The visit not only provided emotional relief to the survivors but also underscored the role of leadership in fostering resilience and unity within the community. As the city continues to recover, the KCCA’s efforts to stand with the affected families serve as a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from solidarity.
