Relief aid reaches Kalangala storm victims

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The Uganda Red Cross Society, in partnership with the Government of Uganda, has provided relief materials to victims of a severe storm in Kalangala.

Each affected household received essential supplies, including saucepans, jerrycans, plates, knives, and solar-powered lights, among others.

Murekatete Emerance, an expectant mother, recounted her terrifying experience.

“As I was in bed, my house disappeared, leaving me wondering where it had gone,” she said.

Despite appreciating the relief items, Murekatete noted that victims still have urgent needs.

“We’re happy about these materials, especially blankets and mosquito nets. However, we need food and iron sheets because even the gardens were ravaged,” she added.

The relief distribution, conducted twice at the Kalangala District Headquarters, has so far benefited 240 households with basic necessities.

Red Cross deputy spokesperson John Cliff Wamala urged recipients to use the items to rebuild their lives rather than selling them.

“We condole with those who lost their loved ones and sympathise with them. This package can’t replace lives, but we hope it will make a meaningful impact,” Wamala stated.

Kalangala district chairperson Rajab Ssemakula revealed that after establishing a disaster management committee, funds were allocated for disaster assessments.

“We hope that money will be available in the 2025/2026 financial year,” said Ssemakula.

Kalangala resident district commissioner Fred Badda assured victims that food relief from the Office of the Prime Minister had already been transported to the islands. However, distribution is still on hold as they wait for another batch.

On Wednesday morning, as strong winds accompanied heavy rains, police officers stationed in tents rushed into the permanent administration building, fearing that another destructive storm had struck.