Two children among 5 dead in latest Kampala floods

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Five people, including two children, died in floods caused by heavy rainfall in Kampala on Wednesday morning, Police said.

Three bodies were recovered from the Kinawataka area. Police had not yet identified the trio by the time of issuing their statement.

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

Luke Owoyesigyire, the Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesperson, said intense rainfall led to severe flooding, resulting in motor accidents and pedestrians being swept away by flash floods.

(Credit: Simon Peter Tumwine)

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: Simon Peter Tumwine)

(Credit: Simon Peter Tumwine)

(Credit: Miriam Najjingo)

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

'Be vigilant'

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

(Credit: Miriam Najjingo)

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 rain 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.