Staff Reporter
Tourism operators in Kisoro District have requested the Marine Department of Police to establish a rescue center in the area to enhance emergency response capabilities.
Hanirwa Sheba, Director of Mutanda Eco Community Center, notes that while community rescue teams have been trained to handle emergencies, they lack adequate equipment. She emphasizes that without a proper rescue facility, it is difficult to save lives, particularly given the frequent drownings in local lakes.
David Bakeine, Director of Gahiza Island Retreat at Lake Mutanda, reports having rescued approximately seven individuals from drowning over the past twelve years. He highlights that the lake presents significant dangers not only to tourists but also to intoxicated individuals and locals who cross the lake to access services on the mainland or engage in illegal fishing activities.
Globally, drowning claims an estimated 236,000 lives each year, marking it as a significant public health issue.
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