More than 50 islanders residing at the Kananansi landing site, Mulabana Parish, Bujumba sub-county in Kalangala district, have been left homeless after a severe storm wreaked havoc on their community. The destructive weather, characterized by heavy rain and strong winds, struck on Tuesday at 5 am, catching the islanders unaware as they slept.
Richard Ssejitta, one of the affected residents, recounted waking up to the sound of his house being lifted away by the wind, followed by the deluge of rain soaking his bed. He described losing consciousness in the chaos but being rescued by a neighbor who pulled him into safety.
Sylvia Nakakeeto, another victim, shared her harrowing experience as her house collapsed with her and her four children inside. Fortunately, they escaped unharmed thanks to the swift response of fellow residents.
Amidst the devastation, Muhammad Bukenya’s vehicle, which doubled as an ambulance at times, was also damaged when a tree fell on it (registration number UAN 557G).
In the aftermath of the disaster, Ssalongo Vincent Kayondo, the leader of the Kananansi landing site, appealed to district legislators for urgent assistance, emphasizing the economic vulnerability of the islanders. He urged swift action from representatives such as Hon. Julius Mukasa Opondo and Helen Nakimuli, while calling for support from the disaster management office.
This recent incident adds to the hardship faced by the community, coming just a month after heavy winds and rain caused extensive damage to crops, homes, and livelihoods in various parts of the district, including Kabanga-Maboga village, Kacanga and Ggunga landing sites, Betta Town, and Mwena.
Harriet Nalubega, the area councilor, echoed the urgent need for assistance, appealing to the Office of the Prime Minister to provide swift relief to address the dire situation faced by the affected residents.
