The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) has publicly apologized to both the general public and users of Entebbe International Airport facilities following an unfortunate incident where the airport’s parking area experienced flooding.
This incident, which garnered attention on various social media platforms, took place on Saturday, April 6, 2024, during heavy rainfall that caused temporary drainage challenges within the car parking zone.
Vianney Mpungu Luggya, the Manager of Public Affairs at UCAA, issued a statement acknowledging that the existing drainage infrastructure was overwhelmed by the intensity of the downpour, leading to water accumulation in the parking area.
“We deeply regret this incident and apologize for any inconvenience caused to the public and users of our facilities,” expressed Luggya.
He further elaborated that the incident persisted for approximately 30 to 45 minutes before the water fully receded.
Luggya conveyed sincere regret for the inconvenience experienced by individuals affected by the incident and extended a formal apology to both the public and users of the airport facilities.
Furthermore, he reassured the public of UCAA’s commitment to swiftly address and resolve the situation.
Luggya also shed light on the ongoing developmental projects at the airport, including the construction of a new terminal building and the interconnection of drainage systems aimed at accommodating future expansions.
“We kindly request the public’s understanding during this period of inconvenience, as we undertake these projects to ensure a seamless experience for airport users,” emphasized Luggya.
He reiterated UCAA’s unwavering dedication to providing a smooth and efficient experience for all individuals utilizing the airport’s facilities.
Weather Authority Issues Advisory
The Uganda National Meteorological Authority (UNMA) has attributed the flash flood reported in Entebbe on Saturday to a prolonged downpour lasting approximately four hours. According to UNMA, Entebbe experienced rainfall measuring up to 106.8 millimetres, marking it as the highest single-day precipitation recorded in recent times. This significant rainfall event is reminiscent of other notable instances, including 77.3mm observed at Iganga S.S. on March 5, 76.4mm at Bulindi Farm in Hoima District on March 25, and 68.1mm at Serere station on March 26, 2024.
The floods reportedly affected various areas of Entebbe International Airport, including the terminal, despite prior infrastructure improvements reported by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA).
This incident has prompted questions about the quality of construction works, particularly among social media users. It occurred just two days after devastating floods in Butaleja District reportedly resulted in loss of life, displacement of individuals, and extensive damage to property and crops valued at millions of shillings.
These reports from Entebbe and Butaleja follow an April 3 forecast by UNMA, which warned of an increased risk of flash floods, water-borne diseases, crop pests, and animal diseases throughout the month. Dr. Bob Alex Ogwang, the acting Executive Director of UNMA, highlighted the heightened likelihood of above-normal rainfall volumes, which could contribute to enhanced crop production and pasture regeneration.
UNMA noted that while March witnessed the onset of seasonal rainfall followed by dry spells in subsequent weeks, April typically marks the peak of the seasonal rainfall for the March, April, and May (MAM) season. Thunderstorms and lightning are common occurrences during this period across most parts of the country. Overall, during April 2024, above-normal rainfall is anticipated across many regions.
In response to these forecasts, UNMA issued an advisory calling for the implementation of soil and water conservation practices to mitigate the impact of soil erosion and waterlogging. These practices include the establishment of waterways, trenches, stone bands, contour trenches, diversion channels, and grass bands.
Additionally, UNMA emphasized the importance of monitoring malaria prevalence and advocated for proactive measures such as ensuring the availability of anti-malarial drugs and the routine distribution of mosquito nets to mitigate the potential increase in waterborne diseases during periods of heavy rainfall.
