Obongi, Uganda – The Obongi District Security Committee has immediately banned the use of boats without life jackets on the River Nile. This decision comes in response to the rising number of fatalities resulting from boat capsizing incidents.
According to Obongi RDC Samuel Mpimbasa Hashaka, the district security committee made this decision during a meeting held at the district headquarters to safeguard the lives of fishermen and boat users.
Additionally, the committee directed the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Obongi to register all boats operating within the district. Hashaka also mentioned that security has been heightened along the River Nile to address cases of smuggling and the use of illegal boats.
Hashaka provided insights during a telephone interview on Thursday evening with our reporter. He disclosed that the ban and registration requirements extend to fishermen operating on the River Nile. The RDC emphasized that incidents of fatalities due to boat capsizing are reported weekly.
Furthermore, a 36-year-old woman, who spoke anonymously to our reporter, suggested that the RDC should establish a hotline where residents can report individuals who defy the order.
