Tragedy Strikes on New Year’s Day as Boat Capsizes in Lake Victoria, Leaving Five Dead

Buvuma District, Sezibwa Region – In a devastating incident on New Year’s Day, five people lost their lives when a boat traveling from Zigunga to Zinga Island in Buvuma District capsized on Lake Victoria. The tragic event occurred at approximately 7:00 pm, according to Hellen Butoto, the Sezibwa Region Police spokesperson.

Reports indicate that the ill-fated boat, suspected to be overloaded, broke into two as it attempted to dock at Zinga Island. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the vessel was carrying an undisclosed number of passengers. While 14 individuals were successfully rescued, several others remain missing.

Butoto stated, “The territorial Police in Buvuma are investigating a tragic incident on Lake Victoria, where a boat traveling from Zigunga to Zinga Island got into an accident, killing 5 people. The incident occurred at 7:00 pm on January 1, 2024.”

The survivors, assisted by colleagues with swimming abilities, managed to rescue themselves. They were promptly transported to Bugaya Hospital, where they are currently receiving medical attention.

The deceased victims were identified as Monday Bukenya (50), Nantaba Sisa (7), Lydia Nanjita (16), Night Ssabano (9), and Angel Namuwaya (10). Meanwhile, the survivors include Annet Bandibasa (35), Florence Nakintu (45), Samali Nalubega (3), Olivia Nalunga (6), Joseph Bukenya (50), Joseph Omoding (15), Shinsia Kaguna (9), David Mukasa (54), Kutusa Namatovu (40), Juma Kangungulu (13), Shaluwa Nishima (9), Precious Naziwa (6), Yisa Yoweri (2), and six-month-old Dan Sseluyembe.

“We condole with the families affected by this tragedy. The Marine Police are still working to recover any additional bodies that may still be missing,” Butoto expressed.

Investigations into the cause of the accident have commenced, and updates will be provided as soon as they become available. The incident highlights the need for enhanced safety measures on Lake Victoria to prevent such unfortunate events in the future.