Small boat blamed in fatal Lake Kyoga fishing incident

12 May 2025, 11:56 am

By Sarah Ejang

On the early morning of May 11, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded on Lake Kyoga, claiming the lives of two local fishermen.

The victims, Ocekeng Alfred from Kaberamido and Obua Eammanuel from Alebtong district, were associated with the Kitelaba landing site in Muntu subcounty, Amolatar district.

According to eyewitness accounts from Ogwal Sarafino, a resident of Kitaleba, the fishermen’s deaths may have been linked to the small size of their boat, which likely compromised their safety while fishing on the expansive lake.

The incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers that can arise in seemingly routine activities, particularly when proper safety measures are not observed.

As the community mourns the loss of these two individuals, the authorities have confirmed that the bodies were released to their relatives for burial, as they had begun to decompose.

The grief-stricken families now face the heart-wrenching task of laying their loved ones to rest.

This tragic event highlights the importance of adhering to safety protocols while engaging in fishing, especially in small vessels.

As communities continue to rely on fishing for their livelihoods, ensuring that fishermen use appropriately sized boats and are equipped with life-saving gear is vital for preventing similar tragedies in the future.

Our thoughts are with the families and friends of Ocekeng Alfred and Obua Eammanuel during this difficult time as they navigate their loss in the wake of such a devastating accident.