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KALANGALA - Legislators representing Kalangala district have sounded the alarm over the Government’s failure to construct a rescue centre on Misonzi island in Bufumira sub-county as well as surveying Lake Victoria to mark dangerous rocks which are a threat to water transport.  

The works ministry is undertaking the two programs which are aimed at decreasing water accidents that lead to drowning, as well as rescuing fishermen who get stuck on the lake as a result of strong waves.  

According to a 2021 research conducted by the Makerere University School of Public Health, drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional injury and death in the country, accounting for 7% of all injuries.  

According to the report, 322,000 annual global drowning deaths occur in low and middle-income countries including Uganda.  

In 2016, the Government embarked on plans to construct two rescue centres in Kalangala district, where one was to be at Mwena landing site in Kalangala Town Council, and the other at Lulamba island, Misonzi landing site in Bufumira sub-county.  

During plenary on Tuesday, Hellen Nakimuli, the Kalangala woman MP reminded the Speaker of the ministry’s commitment to survey the lake by the end of March, an exercise that wasn’t completed.  

Moses Kabuusu, the Kyamuswa Legislator. (All Photos by Samuel Nkuba)

“Of recent, a boat from Kasenyi to Kisaba landing site in Kalangala knocked a rock though no one died, but, such circumstances are most likely to happen again because these spots are not marked,” added Nakimuli.  

Moses Kabuusu, the Kyamuswa MP, reminded the Government about these rescue centres which were not constructed yet they are crucial to the safety of fishermen and travellers on Lake Victoria.  

“Some accidents after and occurrence can be managed through these rescue centres which were promised to Kalangala, Namayingo and Buvuma islands among other water bounded districts though there is no sign that they will be constructed,” added Kabuusu.  

The Inland Water Transport Act 2021, stipulates the provision for the safety of life which was the main aim of these programs.  

Legislators want the Government to embark on their construction as well as surveying the lake for these dangerous spots since the season of heavy winds experienced annually in June and July is also around the corner.