news 30 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Three Bodies Retrieved After Overloaded Canoe Capsizes in Kagadi's River Nguse
Rescue teams recovered three bodies from River Nguse in Kagadi District following the capsizing of a canoe with over 30 passengers on April 28. Search efforts continue amid challenges from the river's channels, with the exact number of missing unconfirmed due to no passenger list. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/three-bodies-recovered-after-canoe-carrying-over-30-passengers-capsizes-in-kagadi-5442692
A joint operation involving Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) marine units, police, and local divers has recovered three bodies from River Nguse in Kagadi District. The canoe, carrying more than 30 passengers, capsized on the evening of April 28.
The search resumed on Thursday after an initial failed attempt on Wednesday. About eight passengers swam to safety, but others remain unaccounted for. Albertine Region Police spokesperson SP Julius Hakiza noted that operations would continue on Friday.
The deceased were identified as Tugumisirize Ahebwa from Kyareeni Cell in Pacwa Town Council, Thomas Tusiime from Hakibare Sub-county in Kabarole District, and Innocent Ndyamusiimaga from Kaigo, Munteme in Kikuube District. Local leader Justus Businge, LCIII Chairperson of Pacwa Town Council, confirmed the bodies were released to families for burial.
Residents have gathered along the riverbanks since the incident, anxious for updates on loved ones. The river’s multiple channels have hindered navigation and recovery, according to Businge. Five UPDF marine personnel were deployed Wednesday but found nothing.
Kagadi Resident District Commissioner Caroline Nanshemeza reported the accident to the Prime Minister, who plans to visit the site Friday. Investigations probe the cause, with passengers citing overloading. No passenger manifest exists, complicating missing persons counts, SP Hakiza added.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)