Heavy flooding of River Ruhezamyenda has cut off the Kisoro–Rubuguri tourism road in Kisoro District, forcing residents and travelers to cross the river using wooden boats or being carried on people’s backs, paying about 5,000 shillings per crossing.
The affected section links Nyundo Sub-county and Rubuguri Town Council in Bukimbiri Constituency.
Fred Mutambuzi, LC3 Chairperson of Nyundo Sub-county, said the river overflowed, making it difficult for tourists and locals to cross.
He urged the government to intervene urgently.
“The area has been repaired several times using culverts, but they are frequently washed away by strong water currents,” Mutambuzi noted.
Residents say daily activities have been severely disrupted. Edward Tushemereirwe, a local resident, explained that schools in the area struggle to receive scholastic materials because vehicles cannot cross the flooded river.
Boat operators have stepped in to provide temporary crossings. Isaac Nsenga, one of the boat owners, said he earns about Shs300,000 daily from transporting people and goods.
Each passenger pays Shs2,000, while luggage is charged Shs3,000, with total collections reportedly exceeding Shs700,000 per day.
Another alternative tourism route connecting Katojo to Rubuguri has also been cut off by landslides, further disrupting travel to popular tourist destinations.
Tourists and tour operators expressed frustration at the difficulties in reaching sites such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Kisoro District Deputy Resident District Commissioner Dan Ndikumwani described the situation as a disaster and said he has contacted the Ministry of Works and Transport to help clear roads damaged by landslides.
Kisoro District, like other parts of the Kigezi sub-region, is frequently affected by flooding during the rainy season, highlighting the urgent need for durable infrastructure solutions.
