Tororo Municipality has been experiencing prolonged heavy rains over the past few days, bringing both relief and concern to residents.
For farmers, the rains are a welcome blessing after weeks of dry conditions that had sparked fears of a looming food shortage.
“We have been longing for this rain. Food prices had started shooting up. In fact, this is going to help us get out of hunger,” said Christine Abbo, a local farmer.
However, the downpours have severely disrupted movement of people and goods, with several roads turning into virtual rivers, making them impassable.
“All the roads are flooded, making movement very difficult. These roads need proper culverts,” a resident noted.
Local leaders warn that the situation could worsen if immediate interventions are not undertaken. Evelyn Achwo, LC1 Chairperson of Agururu B2, said the rains are already affecting homes and livelihoods.
“The rains have just started and this will affect many people. Water enters homes, properties are damaged, and school children find it difficult to cross flooded areas,” Achwo said.
Airfield Road is among the worst-hit areas. Other affected roads include Owere-Kajam Road, Martin-Okumu Road, and Etyang Road. According to local leaders, the flooding now poses a serious threat to lives.
Achwo recounted a recent incident in which floodwaters swept away a child in Agururu.
“The water two days ago swept away a child in Agururu. We intercepted the child near the airfield, that is how the child survived,” she said.
She attributed the worsening situation to inadequate drainage channels along most roads, noting that runoff water from nearby Tororo rock areas flows directly across roads due to lack of proper drainage systems.
“Water flowing from the rocks washes across the roads because there are no proper drainage channels. We have tried to engage municipal council authorities, but they always tell us there is no money,” Achwo added.
Efforts to obtain comments from municipal authorities were unsuccessful, as both the town clerk and municipal engineer declined to speak, citing fasting commitments.
As the rains intensify, residents are increasingly worried about potential loss of life and property if authorities fail to address the poor drainage systems urgently.
