Tragedy struck Lake Bunyonyi as two women and an infant lost their lives in a devastating boat incident over the weekend. Racheal Naturinda and her precious 5-month-old baby, known affectionately as Grant, along with Lehonelia Kesande, perished when their boat capsized during a violent hailstorm.
The heart-wrenching incident unfolded on Saturday, with witnesses recounting how the small vessel, carrying five occupants, was engulfed by hailstorms and buffeted by fierce winds around 3 pm. Steven Kabarebe, a witness to the tragedy, described the harrowing scene of the boat struggling in the tumultuous waters. Despite his valiant efforts to aid in the rescue with another canoe, it was a race against time, and tragically, they arrived too late to save Naturinda, Grant, and Kesande.
Local communities in Kabale District, joined by the Police Marine Unit, mobilized a search operation on Sunday, initially holding out hope for a miraculous rescue. Elidad Kalanzi, the chairman of Murandi Village, received the distressing news and confirmed the loss of three lives in the ill-fated boat journey.
The beauty of Lake Bunyonyi, nestled within the south-western districts of Kabale, Rubanda, and Kisoro, is renowned, cherished not only by Ugandans but by the nation as a whole. Adorning the nation’s currency from 2004 to 2009, its tranquil waters and picturesque islands weave tales of serenity and wonder.
Yet, beneath its serene facade lies the reality of peril, as locals navigate its waters for survival. George Asiimwe, a concerned resident, appealed to the government for essential safety measures, emphasizing the critical need for life jackets and reliable engine boats. For those dwelling along its shores, traversing Lake Bunyonyi is not merely a journey but a lifeline fraught with peril.
Echoing Asiimwe’s plea, Kigezi Sub-region police spokesperson, Elly Maate, affirmed ongoing efforts to locate the victims, underscoring the collaborative spirit between law enforcement and local communities. Sadly, such tragedies are not uncommon on Lake Bunyonyi, where lives are lost, and livelihoods hang in the balance.
As the search continues, the haunting reminder of the fragility of life resonates across the tranquil waters of Lake Bunyonyi. Amidst its breathtaking beauty lies a call to action, urging authorities to ensure the safety of those who rely on its waters for sustenance and survival. Only through concerted efforts and unwavering commitment can the shores of Lake Bunyonyi truly offer solace and security to those who call it home.