Kampala : An Uganda boat accident on Lake Kyoga killed seven people on Sunday, authorities reported. Strong winds capsized the vessel, leaving several passengers struggling in the water before rescue teams pulled them to safety. Local officials are investigating the incident and urging residents to follow strict safety measures while using the lake.
The wooden boat traveled from Muchora Abino A village to escort a catechist to a burial ceremony when it overturned near Kiryanga Village in Acii Sub-County around 11:00 am local time on Friday, police said on Saturday, Xinhua reported.
Police confirmed that 36 people were on board and 29 survived. The vessel hit a stationary tree stump roughly 400 meters from the Kiryanga landing site, causing it to capsize. Authorities moved the bodies of the deceased to Amolatar Health Centre IV mortuary for post-mortem examinations.
Boat accidents frequently occur on Uganda’s lakes, often caused by overloading and poor weather conditions.
A similar tragedy hit Nigeria last month, where a boat capsized in north-central Niger State, killing at least 60 people and leaving dozens rescued. The wooden passenger boat had been carrying people on a condolence visit when it overturned in the Gausawa community of Borgu Local Government Area on September 3.
Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. He stated that the federal government, through the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), will work with the Niger State government to provide relief and support to victims’ families and survivors.
Authorities in Nigeria reported that the vessel had been overloaded and collided with a tree stump. The incident came barely four months after devastating floods struck the state, worsening the impact on the local communities.
The Uganda and Nigeria accidents underscore the persistent risks of water transport in the region, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement of safety rules, proper vessel maintenance, and adherence to passenger limits to prevent future tragedies.
–IANS
