news 28 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Fisherman Survives Brutal Crocodile Attack in Kalangala, Residents Demand Action
A young fisherman in Kalangala narrowly escaped a deadly crocodile attack, sparking renewed calls from the community for the Uganda Wildlife Authority to address the escalating human-wildlife conflict on Lake Victoria. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/fisherman-escapes-death-in-kalangala-crocodile-attack-as-residents-call-for-uwa-intervention-5612504
A harrowing incident at Semawundo Landing Site in Kalangala District has once again brought the dangers of human-wildlife conflict to the forefront. Henry Tumusiime, a 20-year-old fisherman, was bathing near the shore on Sunday evening when a crocodile lunged from the water, latching onto his hand.
Eyewitnesses report that the reptile attempted to drag Tumusiime into deeper waters. His colleagues on the shore rushed to his aid, and in a desperate struggle for survival, Tumusiime managed to grab a boat anchor with his free hand. This allowed him to gain leverage and break free from the crocodile’s powerful jaws. He was pulled into a nearby boat and subsequently rushed to Bufumira Health Centre III for treatment.
This attack is the third crocodile-related incident reported in Kalangala this month, fueling growing fear among residents of lakeside communities. Local leaders and residents have observed a significant increase in crocodile sightings near active landing sites, areas traditionally frequented by fishermen and boat passengers. This behavior is a departure from their usual nesting grounds, suggesting a shift in the reptiles’ habits.
Residents are increasingly concerned about their safety, especially as the lake serves as their primary water source. Many continue to fetch water until late evening, coinciding with the times crocodiles are most active in their hunting patterns. The lack of alternative water sources exacerbates the risk.
In light of these recurring attacks, community members are urgently appealing to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and local district authorities for intervention. They demand permanent solutions to mitigate the threat, emphasizing that the crocodiles are now approaching human settlements rather than the other way around. Calls have been made for UWA to deploy officers to relocate problematic crocodiles and implement protective measures, ensuring that residents can conduct their livelihoods without the constant fear of fatal encounters. The community seeks a resolution that allows them to coexist safely with the wildlife sharing their environment.