The Ugandan government has committed Shs96 billion to address the perennial flooding of the Nyamwamba River in Kasese District, a crisis that has displaced thousands and destroyed critical infrastructure over the years.
Funded by the African Development Bank, the large-scale intervention aims to de-silt the 25-kilometre Nyamwamba catchment area, providing a lasting solution to the floods that have plagued the region.
Nyamwamba’s Deadly Legacy
Nyamwamba River, a vital water source for Kasese, has also been a recurring disaster. Major floods in 2013, 2014, 2020, and 2021 have washed away homes, schools, hospitals, and roads, leaving communities in constant distress.
The primary cause of the flooding is the accumulation of silt and debris, which obstructs the river’s flow and forces water into residential and commercial areas.
De-Silting and Emergency Preparedness
State Minister for Disaster Preparedness Lilian Aber announced that the project is already underway. “We have set aside Shs96 billion to de-silt the entire 25-kilometre Nyamwamba catchment area, which we hope will solve the flooding problem,” she said.
The initiative includes a specialized contractor equipped to handle emergencies, ensuring preparedness for sudden heavy rains.
Kasese Municipality MP Ferigo Kambale welcomed the move, saying, “I’m very happy that the project includes a contractor with emergency equipment. This saves us from last-minute problem-solving.”
Is Shs 96bn Enough? Local Leaders Weigh In
While the funding marks a significant step forward, some local leaders argue it may still fall short. Kambale acknowledged progress but stressed the need for comprehensive planning to prevent future disasters.
Richard Bomera, Chairperson of the Nyamwamba Catchment Management Committee, highlighted gaps in the project.
“The current plan does not include rehabilitating bridges along the river, which are crucial for the region’s connectivity,” he said.
A Glimmer of Hope for Kasese Residents
The Shs96bn project follows an earlier Shs19bn emergency response that de-silted 5.4 kilometres of the most flood-prone areas.
As de-silting efforts begin, residents remain hopeful that this intervention will finally bring stability to their lives and protect the region from Nyamwamba’s unpredictable waters.
