Floods claim two lives, leave trail of destruction in Bunyangabu

Tragedy struck Masibwe village in Katebwa Sub County, Bunyangabu District, on Wednesday evening (March 12, 2025) as heavy rainfall caused the Masibwe River to flood and overflow its banks. The devastating floods resulted in the loss of two lives and left seven others seriously injured.

The victims, identified as Jowad Muhindo, 2, and Jamil Mumbere, 5, were swept away by the powerful floodwaters. Eyewitnesses recounted that the rain began around 4pm and lasted for over 30 minutes, marking the first rainfall the area experienced since the start of the month.

Mr Elisa Bisabali, Jowad's grandfather, shared a heartbreaking account of the tragedy. "I had stepped away, and my wife went to the garden. The deceased was inside the house with the others. When it began to rain and the floods entered the house, they all decided to escape, leaving him behind. He could not run, and the powerful floodwaters swept him away."

Bisabali's house and shop were destroyed, leaving him with nothing. "I lost everything. All my belongings inside the house are gone. Last year, my house collapsed, and my family and I moved into the shop, but now that has been washed away as well. I appeal to the government for relief assistance and financial support to help me rebuild my life."

Mr Joab Muhena, Jamil's father, also shared his painful experience. "After leaving him at home, he later followed me and stopped at the Masibwe trading center, where the rain caught him. After it stopped, he attempted to return home, but by then, the river had started overflowing. He was swept away by the floods and died."

Masibwe village chairperson, Mr Adonia Kirambi, described the chaotic scene. "When we stepped outside, we started urging others to evacuate because the floodwaters were coming at high speed, and homes were collapsing. There was nowhere to run."

The floods damaged at least 60 houses, killed 10 goats, and destroyed many acres of farmland. Bunyangabu District Chairman, Mr James Ategeka, appealed to the government for assistance. "As a district, we don’t have any money. This is the second time we are losing people to a disaster, yet we have not received any relief from the government."

The district is struggling to cope with the aftermath of the floods, with insufficient funds to repair damaged roads and bridges. The tragedy has left many families without homes or livelihoods, and they are now relying on relatives for support.