August 12, 2024 — Kampala, Uganda

In a tragic incident that has stunned the local community and raised significant concerns about waste management practices, the Kiteezi landfill in Kampala, Uganda, has experienced a catastrophic collapse. The event occurred early on Saturday morning, leading to severe casualties and widespread destruction.

Details of the Collapse

The Kiteezi landfill, situated approximately 10 kilometers north of Kampala’s city center, has been a major waste disposal site for the capital since its establishment. The collapse occurred around 3:00 a.m. local time, when a large section of the landfill, which had been steadily accumulating waste for years, gave way. The failure resulted in a massive landslide of refuse that engulfed nearby areas, including residential zones and informal settlements.

Initial reports indicate that the landslide buried several homes under tons of debris. Emergency services and rescue teams have been working tirelessly to locate and assist survivors, but the scale of the disaster has made operations challenging. Preliminary estimates suggest that at least 30 people have been confirmed dead, with dozens more injured or missing.

Impact on the Community

The surrounding neighborhoods have been severely affected by the collapse. In addition to the immediate loss of life and injuries, the incident has disrupted daily life for thousands of residents. Many homes are uninhabitable, and basic services such as electricity and water supply have been severely impacted.

Local authorities have declared a state of emergency in the affected areas. Temporary shelters have been set up for displaced families, and relief efforts are underway to provide food, medical aid, and psychological support to those affected by the disaster.

Underlying Causes and Concerns

The collapse has prompted a thorough investigation into its causes. Preliminary findings suggest that poor waste management practices and inadequate maintenance of the landfill might have contributed to the disaster. The Kiteezi landfill has faced issues related to overcapacity and insufficient infrastructure for managing the enormous volumes of waste it receives.

Environmental experts and civil engineers have long warned about the risks associated with the landfill, highlighting concerns about its structural integrity and the potential for such incidents. The collapse underscores the urgent need for comprehensive waste management reform in Kampala and across Uganda.

Government Response and Future Steps

In response to the disaster, President Yoweri Museveni has called for an immediate review of waste management policies and practices. The government has promised a thorough investigation and accountability for any negligence that may have contributed to the collapse. Additionally, there will be an evaluation of the safety and environmental standards of other landfills across the country.

International aid organizations have also offered support, providing technical expertise and financial assistance to help with the recovery and rebuilding process. The focus now is on ensuring that such a tragedy does not occur again, emphasizing the need for sustainable and safe waste management solutions.