With just months remaining since the country was shaken by the Kitezi landfill tragedy, the abandoned garbage heap erupted in flames again this morning, sparking renewed concern among the surrounding communities.
Following the August 10, 2024, landslide that claimed over 20 lives and destroyed homes and livestock, the government ordered the decommissioning of the site. However, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has yet to take any action.
Residents of Lusanja and Kitezi reported seeing the fire on the garbage heap but are unsure how it started or who was responsible.
Many suspect that the buildup of hot gases within the decomposing waste, which has accumulated over years, may have ignited the blaze.
Community members fear the landfill could erupt again at any time, posing a serious threat to lives unless urgent steps are taken to close and manage the site properly.
According to a police statement, the Police Fire Prevention and Rescue Services responded promptly to the fire outbreak at the landfill on June 17, 2025, at around 8:00 PM, after receiving reports from concerned citizens.
“Our dedicated team was able to quickly contain and extinguish the fire. Fortunately, no casualties were recorded,” said Luke Owoyesigire, deputy spokesperson for Kampala Metropolitan Police.
Authorities have warned the public to stay clear of the landfill site, which remains hazardous even after the fire has been extinguished.
“An investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, and further updates will be shared in due course,” Owoyesigire added.
