Kampala – In a shocking turn of events, allegations have emerged that the 100,000 royal palm trees donated and planted by prominent businessman Hamis Kigundu during the NAM summit in January are being systematically destroyed by certain individuals within the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA).
The disturbing video footage circulating online depicts street sweepers, allegedly part of a disgruntled SACCO, spraying the trees with poisonous liquids before uprooting them. The accused individuals include Isaac Mugumbure, the Head of Landscaping, and Anitah, formerly the acting Director of Physical Planning at KCCA.
Background of the Incident
During the NAM summit, Ham Kigundu, widely known for his philanthropic efforts and dedication to environmental conservation, donated and planted 100,000 Royal Palm trees in various parts of Kampala. This gesture was met with widespread praise and appreciation, seen as a significant contribution to the city’s greening efforts.
Allegations of Sabotage
However, it appears not everyone welcomed Kigundu’s initiative. According to sources, Isaac Mugumbure and Anitah were reportedly displeased with the project, feeling that it undermined their ongoing plans for city beautification. In response, they allegedly orchestrated the destruction of the donated trees using street sweepers to carry out the act.
Public Outcry
The footage has sparked a wave of condemnation from the public and environmental activists. Many are calling for immediate action to address this blatant sabotage and hold the responsible parties accountable.
“This is not just an attack on Ham Kigundu’s generosity but also on the city’s environmental future. Such actions are unacceptable and should be thoroughly investigated,” stated a spokesperson from an environmental NGO.
Official Response
KCCA has yet to release an official statement regarding the allegations. However, sources within the authority indicate that an internal investigation may be underway to determine the validity of these claims and take appropriate action against those involved.
Call for Justice
As the investigation unfolds, there is a growing demand for transparency and accountability from KCCA. The public and various stakeholders are urging the authority to protect such philanthropic initiatives and ensure that those sabotaging them face strict penalties.
Hamis Kiggundu Expresses Outrage Over KCCA’s Destruction of Donated Trees
Hamis Kiggundu has expressed strong displeasure with the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) for uprooting some of the trees he donated earlier this year for city beautification and environmental restoration.In a post on X, accompanied by several videos, Kiggundu voiced his disappointment over the situation.”It is truly disheartening to witness these KCCA employees poisoning and uprooting these palm trees. Where is the patriotism? We invested significant time and resources into purchasing, donating, planting, and maintaining these royal palm trees throughout the city, all under their supervision. With such impunity going unpunished, our journey towards national development remains arduous,” Kiggundu stated on X.
The destruction of the trees donated by Ham Kigundu is a troubling development that highlights internal conflicts and challenges within KCCA. As the city grapples with these allegations, the need for unity and a collective effort towards a greener, more sustainable Kampala remains paramount. The public eagerly awaits KCCA’s response and the outcome of the investigations to see justice served and ensure such acts of sabotage do not recur.
