Rising water levels in River Nyamwamba have caused widespread flooding in parts of Kasese town, displacing families and threatening several neighbourhoods. The river has diverted from its main course, overflowing into the Kamulikwizi channel and sending floodwaters through the heart of Kasese. Residents in areas such as Congo Quarter, Base Camp Lower, and Mumbuzi are facing the brunt of the floods. The situation is dire, with many residents forced to flee their homes and seek shelter elsewhere.
The affected areas include Congo Quarter, Base Camp Lower, Mumbuzi, Kisanga A, Nyakasanga West, and Kamulikwizi Cell. Residents have expressed concerns about the unpredictability of River Nyamwamba, which can burst its banks without warning. In Kanyangeya Village, heavy and persistent rains have left a trail of destruction, with over 13 households losing their homes to the floods. Local leaders are urging authorities to take urgent action to mitigate the effects of the floods.
Deo Isemamba, the Kanyangeya LC1 Chairperson, reported that the floods have left many residents without homes. Brian Kagwa, a resident of Kanyangeya, said the recurring floods are putting people's lives at risk due to the difficulty in predicting when the river will overflow. Residents are calling for urgent action to address the condition of River Nyamwamba, including desilting the river and strengthening gabions to contain the water.
Herbert Ndagize, a resident of Majengo, emphasized the need for authorities to take immediate action to prevent further flooding. Allen Biira, the District Councillor for Nyamwamba Division, appealed to the government to prioritize families affected by the floods. He called for immediate relief supplies, including food, bedding, and temporary shelters, for residents who have been displaced.
Kikusa Mustafa, the Assistant Chief Administrative Officer and Chairperson of the District Disaster Management Committee, urged the national government to honour its pledge to desilt River Nyamwamba. Clearing the river could help reduce the risk of future flooding, he said. Kasese district authorities remain on high alert, monitoring water levels and coordinating relief efforts for people displaced by the floods.
As heavy rains are expected to continue throughout the month, residents have been urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. Authorities are warning people to avoid crossing flooded rivers and to stay safe. The situation in Kasese town remains critical, with many residents still in need of assistance.
The floods have affected over 14,426 people, according to reports from 88.2 Sanyu FM. The Ugandan government and local authorities are working together to provide relief and support to those affected. The disaster management committee is coordinating efforts to provide assistance to displaced residents and to mitigate the effects of the floods.
Key points
- River Nyamwamba has diverted from its main course, causing widespread flooding in Kasese town.
- Over 13 households have lost their homes in Kanyangeya Village due to the floods.
- Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions as heavy rains are expected to continue throughout the month.
