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Two missing after drowning in Lake Bunyonyi

17 April 2025, 12:40

By Uziah Tusaasire

A drowning person.

Two people are feared dead after drowning in Lake Bunyonyi on April 15, 2025, during a tragic canoe accident in Kitumba subcounty Kabale district.

According to Kigezi Region Police Spokesperson Elly Maate, the victims have been identified as; Jennipher Nyabyekyerera, aged 70, a resident of Rubanda district and Medius Ngyenda, whose details are still being confirmed.

ASP Elly Maate Kigezi Police spokesperson English version.
ASP Elly Maate Kigezi Police spokesperson Runyankole version.

The incident occurred at around 5:00 PM between Musingwe and Katooma landing sites on Lake Bunyonyi.

It is reported that five people were traveling in a canoe when they were caught in a storm before it was overwhelmed by strong waves and capsised, causing all five occupants to fall into the water.

Fortunately, three individuals managed to swim to safety, but the two women remain missing and are presumed to have drowned.

Marine police officers have been conducting search operations at the lake, but by the time of reporting, the bodies had not yet been recovered.

Maate is now urging residents living and operating around Lake Bunyonyi to always prioritise safety by using protective gear, including life jackets or even empty jerrycans with lids that can provide buoyancy in emergencies.