A boat traveling from Zigunga to Zinga Island in Buvuma District capsized on Lake Victoria, resulting in the loss of five lives on Monday, January 1, 2024, . Hellen Butoto, the Sezibwa Region Police spokesperson, reported that the tragic accident occurred around 7:00 pm.
According to Butoto, the ill-fated boat, suspected to be overloaded, broke into two while attempting to dock at Zinga Island. The aftermath of the incident has seen 14 individuals successfully rescued, with several others still missing.
“The territorial Police in Buvuma are investigating a tragic incident on Lake Victoria, where a boat traveling from Zigunga to Zinga Island got into an accident, killing 5 people. The incident occurred at 7:00 pm on January 1, 2024,” Butoto stated.
As of now, the confirmed casualties include Monday Bukenya (50 years old), Nantaba Sisa (7), Lydia Nanjita (16), Night Ssabano (9), and Angel Namuwaya (10). The survivors, who were transported to Bugaya Hospital for medical attention, include Annet Bandibasa (35), Florence Nakintu (45), Samali Nalubega (3), Olivia Nalunga (6), Joseph Bukenya (50), Joseph Omoding (15), Shinsia Kaguna (9), David Mukasa (54), Kutusa Namatovu (40), Juma Kangungulu (13), Shaluwa Nishima (9), Precious Naziwa (6), Yisa Yoweri (2), and six-month-old Dan Sseluyembe.
Butoto expressed condolences to the affected families and informed the public that the Marine Police are actively working to recover any additional bodies that may still be missing. Investigations into the cause of the accident have commenced, and updates will be provided as they become available.
