Three individuals, including an infant, met a tragic end in Lake Bunyonyi when the dugout canoe they were sailing in capsized during an evening excursion. Identified as Naturinda Racheal, Kesande Lehonelia, and Grant, a five month old, the victims succumbed to the perilous waters of the lake as heavy rains, strong winds, and a hailstorm battered the area for nearly five hours.
Eyewitness Steven Kabarebe recounts the events of yesterday afternoon, recalling how the onset of rain prompted loud cries for help. Rushing to the scene, Kabarebe witnessed the distressing sight of the canoe overturning. Despite his efforts to secure another vessel for rescue, the adverse weather conditions thwarted his attempts. Tragically, by the time assistance could be mobilized, two of the occupants had already perished.
Elidad Kalanzi, the chairman of LC1 Murandi village, received a distressing phone call around 4:30 pm, alerting him to the drowning incident. Kalanzi confirms that of the five individuals aboard the ill-fated canoe, three lost their lives while two managed to survive the harrowing ordeal.
Resident George Asiimwe has voiced a plea to the government, urging the provision of life jackets for every family dwelling near the lake. Highlighting the longstanding presence of lakeside communities, Asiimwe stressed the necessity of motorized boats to facilitate safe transportation across the lake’s waters.
Elly Maate, spokesperson for the Kigezi Sub-region police, has acknowledged awareness of the tragic incident and reported ongoing search efforts led by marine police and local volunteers.
