KAMPALA — Authorities in Kampala have launched investigations into the demolition of a structure at St. Balikuddembe Market, after unknown individuals allegedly brought it down without authorisation late Saturday night.
According to the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), the incident occurred at around 10:00 p.m. on March 7, when unidentified people used heavy machinery to demolish a building located at the boundary of the market along Sebana Road, near the Nakivubo Channel.
In a statement released Sunday by the Kampala Capital City Authority spokesperson, the city authority said the demolition was carried out without the required permit.
“Persons yet to be identified descended upon a structure forming part of St. Balikuddembe Market located at the boundary of Nakivubo Channel along Sebana Road and demolished it without authorisation,” the authority said in a statement.
“This reckless demolition, carried out under the cover of darkness, was done without obtaining a demolition permit from the city authority.”
The authority said it is working with other government agencies to assess the damage and secure the remaining parts of the structure.
“KCCA, in collaboration with sister agencies, is actively working to salvage what remains of the structure and ensure that those responsible for this destruction of a public good are brought to book,” the statement added.
Police have since arrested the operators of two machines that were allegedly being used in the demolition.
“Operators of the two machines, which were being used to demolish, have been arrested by the police and investigations into the matter have commenced,” KCCA said.
St. Balikuddembe Market, commonly known as Owino Market, is one of the largest and busiest markets in Kampala, hosting thousands of traders dealing in clothing, food items and other goods. The market has previously undergone several redevelopment and infrastructure improvement discussions as city authorities seek to modernise trading spaces and improve drainage around the Nakivubo Channel corridor.
Authorities say further updates will be provided as investigations into the demolition continue.
