Frank Nyakaana Rusa has been appointed as the new acting Executive Director of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), replacing Dorothy Kisaka who was dismissed alongside her deputy Engr David Luyimbazi and Dr. Daniel Okello, Director of Public Health, following the Kiteezi landfill tragedy that claimed over 30 lives and left several missing.
Frank Rusa, a seasoned legal professional and leader with over 20 years of experience in governance, law, and public service, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role.
Rusa holds a Bachelor’s of Law from Makerere University, a postgraduate diploma from the Law Development Centre in Kampala, and a Master of Public Administration from Harvard University.
Prior to his appointment, Rusa served as Executive Secretary of the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD), where he facilitated crucial discussions among presidents and secretaries general of political parties to build consensus on pertinent issues. He also served as Country Representative of the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD), promoting dialogue among and between political actors for consensus building on matters of national development and peaceful co-existence.
As Programme Manager for Deepening Democracy at the Democratic Governance Facility (DGF), Rusa led initiatives to strengthen civic engagement in democratic processes, collaborating closely with civil society organizations and state institutions. At DGF, the largest multi-donor fund dedicated to supporting democratic governance in Africa, Rusa worked tirelessly to promote democratic values.
Between 2003 and 2006, Rusa headed the Legal and Public Relations Department at the Uganda Electoral Commission, playing a critical role in guiding the institution and the Government of Uganda in its transition from “no party” politics to multiparty politics in 2005. During his tenure, he provided expert legal advice and representation to the Commission.
Additionally, Rusa served as Director of Legal Affairs at KCCA, leading a comprehensive program of legal services that supported virtually every facet of the Authority’s work. He directed the Directorate of Legal Affairs, guiding the Authority’s decision-makers with a clear view of all their lawful options and proactive counsel.
Rusa’s expertise extends to facilitating high-level dialogues, leading civic engagement initiatives, and community organizing and team building. His commitment to advancing democratic governance and human rights is evident in his previous roles.
In 2012, Rusa attended the prestigious Draper-Hills Democracy fellowship at Stanford University. He was also a Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellow at the National Endowment for Democracy in 2013.
As KCCA’s acting Executive Director, Rusa will steer the Authority forward during this challenging period, addressing the issues leading to the Kiteezi landfill tragedy and ensuring the Authority’s effective operation. His appointment is effective immediately, and he will hold the position until a substantive office holder is appointed.
Rusa’s terms include submitting quarterly reports to the Head of Public Service and Secretary to Cabinet, as well as the Minister in charge of KCCA.