Government Approves Shs19 Billion Relief for Kampala Flood Traders

The Ugandan government has officially approved Shs18.9995 billion in financial assistance to support 1,841 traders whose businesses suffered severe damage during the devastating October 2025 floods in Kampala. The announcement was made by the Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Justine Kasule Lumumba, following a Cabinet meeting at the Uganda Media Centre.

The approved funds will be distributed as compassionate ex-gratia assistance to verified traders operating across 13 commercial arcades and Owino Market, including popular trading hubs like Totala Building, Qualicel Mall, and Nabukeera Plaza. The financial intervention comes after months of mounting pressure and protests from business owners who lost valuable merchandise when flash floods inundated the city center.

In addition to the trader relief, Cabinet allocated an extra Shs1 billion to the Federation of Uganda Traders Associations (FUTA). Of this amount, Shs682.5 million is designated for operational expenses, while Shs318 million will bolster the association’s revolving fund.

Beyond immediate compensation, the government is tackling the root causes of the disaster. Investigations revealed that blocked drainage outlets along the Nakivubo Channel, compounded by illegal construction, accumulated silt, and undersized culverts, significantly worsened the flooding. The Office of the Prime Minister has been tasked with coordinating multiple agencies to overhaul Kampala’s drainage systems and enforce environmental regulations to prevent future catastrophes. Read the full story on Nile Post.