Kasese Faces Renewed Flood Threat as River Nyamwamba Bursts Banks

Kasese Municipality is once again grappling with the destructive force of floodwaters as River Nyamwamba burst its banks following intense overnight rainfall. The overflow has significantly impacted several communities, submerging more than 80 homes and forcing at least 20 households to evacuate their residences.

This latest event has amplified existing worries regarding Kasese’s readiness to handle the persistent heavy rains characteristic of the current season. The district, situated at the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains, is particularly vulnerable as rainfall in the highlands rapidly swells rivers like Nyamwamba, Nyamugasani, and Mubuku, increasing the risk of downstream flooding.

Officials have pointed to specific weak points along River Nyamwamba’s channel that allow water to breach and inundate nearby areas. Deputy Town Clerk Zedekiah Kayiri emphasized the urgency for intervention from the Ministry of Water and Environment to develop a permanent solution to these recurring floods.

Joseph Isingoma, Kasese District Disaster Focal Person, described the incident as a stark warning, especially with more rainfall anticipated. Local leaders are advising residents in flood-prone zones to consider temporary relocation to higher, safer ground for the duration of the rainy season. LCIII Chairperson Brian Kauntura urged immediate precautionary measures rather than waiting for disaster to strike.

The recurring nature of these floods highlights a cycle of emergency responses without long-term structural solutions. Authorities are calling for a dual approach: immediate preparedness measures and sustained efforts to mitigate flood risks in vulnerable areas, ensuring greater safety for communities along the district’s rivers.

Source: Nile Post