Uganda's Ministry of Water and Environment is facing a challenge from Lake Victoria, Africa's largest freshwater lake. Water levels have risen above historical records, threatening shoreline communities and infrastructure.
Minister Sam Cheptoris acknowledged the unprecedented rise, from 13.5 meters to 13.66 meters in 2024. He warned of potential flooding and casualties, similar to those experienced in neighbouring Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi.
To address this threat, the Ministry secured a 5.5 billion Ugandan Shilling budget from the cabinet. These funds will be used to protect infrastructure with "Gabioles," a type of retaining wall, and to manage water flow from the Jinja dam.
Climate change is identified as the primary reason for the rising water levels. The Ministry is urging residents in vulnerable shoreline areas to evacuate before environmental consequences become dire.
This situation highlights the impact of climate change on East Africa. Uganda's proactive approach, with both funding and evacuation measures, aims to minimize the potential devastation of rising water levels.
