Lake Albert Water Level Threatens to Displace Over 500 Families

The Bugahya Member of Parliament has voiced concerns about the alarming situation, where several houses have already been submerged, prompting fears that the worsening rains may exacerbate the crisis.

Leaders in Hoima district are urgently appealing for government intervention as over 500 families face the threat of displacement due to rising water levels along the shores of Lake Albert.

The Bugahya Member of Parliament, Pius Wakabi, has voiced concerns about the alarming situation, where several houses have already been submerged, prompting fears that the worsening rains may exacerbate the crisis.

The most affected landing sites include Mbegu, Kaiso, Kiryamboga, and Kijangi, all located in Buseruka and Kabale sub-counties.

Local leaders report that water levels in these areas began rising in July and have significantly worsened since then.

John Munguriek, the local council II chairperson for Rwentale parish, confirmed the severe impact on residents.

“Our people were affected in 2020 when their houses were submerged. Many lost their permanent homes and have been trying to recover from the shock. Now, with the waters rising again, we are worried that the situation may be worse. The rains haven’t intensified, but the water levels are increasing, and we hope the government can assist us,” Munguriek stated.

Ali Tinkamanyire, the local council III chairperson for Buseruka sub-county, echoed these concerns, revealing that 20 houses have already been submerged.

He warned of potential health challenges, such as malaria, as stagnant waters create breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

“During the previous calamity, we called on the government to relocate people in prone areas, but nothing has been done. As we speak, 20 houses have submerged, and about 500 homesteads are at risk of also being affected,” Tinkamanyire said.

Pius Wakabi, the Bugahya MP, is advocating for affirmative action, suggesting the government buy land in safer areas for affected families.

“As members of parliament in Hoima, Buliisa, and Kikuube, local leaders have called upon the government for support to the affected persons, but nothing has been done. It’s been four years since the last incident, and we are seeing the same crisis unfold again,” Wakabi emphasized.

This is the second time Hoima and Buliisa districts are facing rising water levels, with the previous incident between 2020 and 2021 displacing 5,000 people in Hoima and 3,500 families in Buliisa.

Many of the displaced were forced to seek refuge with relatives, hoping for government support that has yet to materialize.