EDITOR
Following the recent drowning of two people in Lake Bunyonyi, local residents and leaders are calling for stronger safety measures and community-driven initiatives to prevent further loss of life.
The victims, identified as 24-year-old student Bruce Ainepurani and 42-year-old father Dickson Kabagambe, were laid to rest over the weekend, reigniting concerns about the safety of lake transport.
While government intervention remains crucial, residents and tour operators are advocating for grassroots solutions that can be implemented immediately. Ronald Asiimwe, a local tour operator, urged communities to take proactive steps to safeguard lives.
“Life jackets should not just be stored in government offices—they must be in every household near the lake. Families and local groups can start small safety awareness campaigns,” Asiimwe said.
Lake Bunyonyi Secondary School has seen three student deaths since 2007 due to drowning. Headteacher Nicholas Kazumba emphasized that community involvement, such as local swimming lessons and regular safety checks on canoes, could significantly reduce risks.
Political leaders, including Ndorwa West NRM flagbearer Eliab Naturinda Mporera, support these efforts and have pledged to lobby for government resources while encouraging local initiatives.
Local statistics show that drowning claims at least 10 lives annually on Lake Bunyonyi, with incidents often linked to unsafe canoes, overcrowding, and lack of life jackets. Residents are hopeful that combining government support with community-led safety programs can prevent future tragedies.
Some groups have already started organizing swimming lessons for children and families, as well as checking and repairing local canoes. Leaders believe that fostering a culture of water safety at the grassroots level could save lives even before large-scale interventions arrive.
