By Kasese Municipality in western Uganda has been hit by severe flooding following heavy downpours, with River Nyamwamba bursting its banks and causing widespread damage. Local authorities report that at least four villages in Nyamwamba Division have been severely impacted.
According to initial assessments, over 1,000 households have been displaced, with 250 homes completely submerged. Local officials fear that one woman may have drowned in the fast-moving waters, though this has not been confirmed.
The District Disaster Management Committee, along with Response Action Teams, is conducting a rapid assessment to determine the full extent of the damage. Search operations are underway, with local Village Task Forces comprising community responders assisting in efforts to locate any missing individuals.
Kasese has a history of flooding, particularly in the last decade. The town, situated along River Nyamwamba, has experienced multiple flood events that have displaced thousands, caused significant property damage, and claimed lives. Notable floods occurred in 2013, 2014, 2020, and 2021, each causing extensive damage to infrastructure, homes, and agricultural lands.
Environmental experts attribute the increasing frequency of floods in the district to a combination of factors, including environmental degradation and climate change. Deforestation in the nearby Rwenzori Mountains has reduced the area’s capacity to absorb rainfall, leading to faster runoff into the river. Human activities along the riverbanks have also weakened these natural barriers, heightening flood risks.
Despite efforts by local and national authorities to implement preventive measures, the region’s vulnerability remains high. Many residents continue to live in flood-prone areas along the riverbanks, exacerbating the impact of these recurring disasters.
Local leaders are calling for enhanced community awareness programs on disaster preparedness, improved drainage systems, and increased investment in sustainable environmental management practices to mitigate future flood risks.
This latest flood event underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive flood management plan for Kasese and its surrounding areas, as the region continues to grapple with the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation.
