Heavy rain continues to cause stress and disruption for locals

22 December 2025, 20:13

By Winnie Auma

George William Omony, the Forecasting Services Manager at the Uganda National Meteorological Authority, said he has received concerns from some farmers asking whether they can plant trees during this period.

However, he advised that farmers should not consider planting trees at this time, explaining that the current rains are expected to end before the close of the year. He added that the Authority is not yet certain about when the next rainy season will resume.

Omony urged farmers to focus on growing short-maturing crops such as vegetables to help address food insecurity, noting that they take a shorter time in the garden. He also encouraged communities to harvest and store rainwater for future use, particularly to support livestock and meet domestic water needs.

On the other hand, residents in parts of Lango have expressed concern about the impact of the rains on their wellbeing. Johnny Stephen Ocen, the LC1 Chairperson of Barapua Village in Alir Parish, said the local road network has deteriorated, attributing this to the heavy rains experienced in the past as well as the recent rainfall.

He noted that the poor road conditions have disrupted business and transport in the area, as people are unable to move their produce to markets for sale.

Shaban Awici, a resident of Ogom Village in Alir Parish, said the poor road network has hindered access to Ogwete Health Centre III. He added that if the roads are not repaired soon, the situation will affect learners’ movement to Ogwete Primary School during the first term next year.

In Dokolo District, some sub-counties surrounding Lake Kwania are experiencing flooding during this period.

Last week, a UPDF brigade donated an engine boat and 31 life jackets to residents of Bata Island in Adeknino Sub-county to ease transportation for the local community.

The Resident District Commissioner for Dokolo, Babra Akech, said the donation was timely, noting that the flood-prone nature of the area often hinders residents’ access to schools, health centres and markets.

Frederick Ogwal Owiny, the LCIII Chairperson of Adeknino Sub county, said he will form a committee to oversee the operation of the boat.