Government has released Shs20 billion as ex-gratia support to compensate traders who suffered losses during the devastating floods that hit downtown Kampala in November 2025.
This revelation was made by Minister of State for Disaster Preparedness, Relief and Refugees, Lilian Aber together with the Permanent Secretary of the Office of the Prime Minister.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, Aber said the funds were provided under the directive of President Museveni to support affected businesses.
“I have today morning briefed the press on Government’s response to the floods that affected traders in downtown Kampala, particularly along Nakivubo Channel, Ssebana Road, Allen Road and surrounding business areas that suffered significant property damages,” Aber said.
She noted that government intervened immediately after the disaster.
“Government acted swiftly through emergency drainage interventions that enabled floodwaters to be cleared and business operations to resume,” she added.
Aber explained that a verification exercise is ongoing to ensure only genuine beneficiaries receive compensation.
“A transparent assessment and verification process is being undertaken to ensure that the support reaches the rightful beneficiaries based on documented losses,” she said.
She added that the Office of the Prime Minister is coordinating a multi-sectoral team to oversee the process.
“The Office of the Prime Minister is coordinating a multi-sectoral committee to implement this Presidential directive, working closely with traders’ representatives to guide verification and the disbursement process,” Aber said.
The minister also assured traders of long-term measures to prevent similar disasters.
“Government remains committed to long-term solutions including drainage improvement, stricter enforcement of building regulations, environmental restoration, and strengthened disaster preparedness to build a safer and more resilient Kampala,” she said.
She appealed for calm among affected traders as the process continues. “I appeal to the traders to remain calm as we expedite the process of data verification,” Aber said.
In November 2025, heavy rains triggered floods that destroyed property worth billions of shillings in downtown Kampala, especially in areas surrounding Nakivubo Channel.
The floods were largely blamed on blocked drainage systems, with water entering shops and arcades.
Following the disaster, traders staged demonstrations demanding government intervention, leading to the arrest of several protesters.
In response, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) later engaged traders and promised compensation, asking them to submit lists of affected businesses with proof of loss.
