Death toll rises to seven in latest Kampala flooding

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The death toll of flooding caused by heavy morning rainfall in Kampala on Wednesday has risen to seven, Police said in an update on the situation.

Among the dead are two children, who were reportedly trapped inside their flooded home.

(Credit: Miriam Najjingo)

In an update, Police said they had retrieved two more bodies, including that of George Bogere, who is said to have been an employee of the US Embassy in Kampala.

Luke Owoyesigyire, the Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP) deputy spokesperson, said Bogere's body and that of another person were recovered from the Lutete area in Kasangati town council in Wakiso district.

He said that Bogere, a resident of Lutete village in Kasangati, tragically drowned while riding a motorcycle in the morning.

The second victim, also a male adult, was not immediately identified.

Earlier in the day, three bodies were recovered from the Kinawataka area, with the identities of the deceased not yet known.

Two children — three-year-old Eliza Otim Kisa and 11-month-old Ochaka Chon — reportedly drowned at their home in Mulimira Zone in Bukoto.

Owoyesigyire said intense rainfall led to severe flooding, resulting in motor accidents and pedestrians being swept away by flash floods.

(Credit: Miriam Najjingo)

(Credit: Miriam Najjingo)

Significant property damage was also reported.

“KMP, in coordination with the Police Fire Prevention and Rescue Services, continues to respond to multiple emergency calls following the downpour experienced in various parts of Kampala early this morning," he said. 

He said preliminary reports had indicated that the mother of the two dead children, Rose Mary Lenunu, locked them inside the house while she went about her work. 

"She has since been arrested by Kira Road Police on allegations of negligence, as neighbours claimed this was a recurring practice,” said Owoyesigyire.

“We urge the public to take precautionary measures during heavy rains: avoid unnecessary movement during downpours to prevent accidents.

"Boda boda riders are strongly advised not to risk crossing flooded roads and to wait until water levels recede for safe passage.

(Credit: Miriam Najjingo)

"Residents should secure their homes and ensure the safety of children, especially during extreme weather conditions,” added Owoyesigyire.

(Credit: Miriam Najjingo)

(Credit: Miriam Najjingo)

'Be vigilant'

The early morning rainfall, which started at around 5am in many parts of Kampala, flooded roads and caused heavy traffic jam.

Some vehicles, unable to hold firm, were swept into drainages.

Irene Nakasita, the Uganda Red Cross spokesperson, said the morning floods left many houses and properties destroyed in different areas.

She said their assessment teams were still on the ground working with the local leaders and the Police to help stranded people.

“We continue to encourage people to be vigilant and cautious of their safety as the rainy season sets in."

As had been forecasted, Uganda has started experiencing near-normal to above-normal rainfall over most regions this month.

The rainy season is expected to continue until May, following a prolonged dry spell in earlier months.