Rising water levels in Lake Albert are threatening to displace over 500 families residing along its shores in Hoima District, Uganda. This is the second time in four years that residents have faced such a crisis, following devastating floods in 2020 and 2021.
Communities affected by the floods include Fofo, Kijangi, Mbegu, Rwentali, Kaiso, and Kiryamboga landing sites in Buseruka and Kabaale sub-counties. Water levels have been rising since July and August, peaking in September.
Residents are expressing deep concern about their situation. Many have lost their homes in previous floods and have nowhere to go. They fear for their safety and health, as the stagnant water creates a breeding ground for mosquitoes and increases the risk of malaria. Additionally, the floods have disrupted their livelihoods, damaged infrastructure, and disrupted essential services.
Local leaders confirmed the severity of the situation. John Munguriek, LC2 Chairperson of Rwentale Parish, and Ali Tinkamanyire, Buseruka sub-county LCIII Chairperson, noted that 20 homes have already been submerged in Rwentale Parish. Bugahya County MP Pius Wakabi emphasized the urgent need for affirmative action to assist the residents, urging the government to acquire land for resettlement before the crisis worsens.
“We’ve lost everything again,” said Swizin Tinkamanyire, 77, whose house was destroyed by the floods. “There’s nowhere for us to go.”
This current crisis mirrors the devastating floods of 2020-2021, which displaced over 5,000 people in Hoima District and 3,500 families in Buliisa District, causing significant property damage. Many displaced residents were forced to seek refuge in churches, schools, or makeshift shelters, only to return to dilapidated homes despite the risks.
