Kampala businessman Hamis Kiggundu, widely known as Ham, has publicly confirmed that his team carried out the controversial demolition of structures at St. Balikuddembe Market, commonly known as Owino Market.

The demolition took place overnight on March 7, 2026, targeting stalls along Sebana Road near the Nakivubo Channel drainage corridor in Kampala.

Overnight Demolition Sparks Outrage

According to reports, heavy machinery arrived at the site around 10:00 p.m., tearing down a section of the market without prior demolition authorization from the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA).

The demolition initially triggered confusion and anger among traders and city leaders after the individuals behind the operation were not immediately identified. Vendors accused unknown actors of attempting to seize market land, prompting calls for investigations from city officials.

Erias Lukwago, the Lord Mayor of Kampala, publicly accused Kiggundu of being behind the operation, pointing out that workers involved wore reflective jackets branded “Hamz,” a name associated with the tycoon’s property development projects.

Kiggundu Defends Action

In a statement reported by New Vision, Kiggundu confirmed that the demolition was conducted by his team and defended the move as part of ongoing development efforts along the Nakivubo corridor.

He said the exercise was intended to support improvements in drainage and sanitation in the flood prone area surrounding the channel.

The Nakivubo drainage system has long been a focus of redevelopment and rehabilitation projects due to frequent flooding in parts of Kampala’s central business district.

Compensation for Affected Traders

In response to the controversy, Kiggundu announced compensation measures for the vendors whose businesses were affected.

According to his statement:

• About 48 traders were impacted by the demolition.

• Each trader received UGX 3 million to help relocate their merchandise.

• They will also be offered lock up shops in new facilities under development.

• The new shops will be rent free for the first year.

The compensation plan appears aimed at easing tensions while redevelopment works continue in the area.

Authorities Investigating

Despite the admission, questions remain about the lack of official authorization for the demolition. KCCA earlier distanced itself from the operation and condemned the exercise as unauthorized.

Police have since opened a general inquiry into the incident, with reports indicating that some individuals connected to the demolition have been arrested as investigations continue.

Development vs Livelihood Concerns

The incident highlights ongoing tensions in Kampala’s rapidly evolving urban landscape, where major private development projects often intersect with informal markets and small scale traders.

St. Balikuddembe Market is one of Uganda’s largest and busiest trading centers, known for second hand clothing and a wide range of affordable goods that support thousands of livelihoods.

While Kiggundu argues that redevelopment along the Nakivubo corridor will improve sanitation and modernize the area, critics say such actions risk disrupting the livelihoods of traders who rely on the market for survival.

The coming weeks are expected to determine how city authorities and regulators respond to the demolition and what the future holds for the affected section of Owino Market.