KAMPALA —A new documentary has premiered in Uganda, shedding light on the country’s devastating drowning crisis.
The Unpredictable Waters, produced by Reach A Hand Uganda (RAHU), shares real-life stories of families affected by drowning, highlighting the need for urgent action to prevent further tragedies.
“Drowning is a major public health concern that requires urgent attention,” said Eng. Christopher Tumusiime, Commissioner of the Water Utilities Regulations Department at the Ministry of Water and Environment.
“Uganda is blessed with abundant water bodies, but they come with challenges, including drowning. Children and young people are the most affected. In 2023 alone, 138 drowning fatalities were reported—a fact that highlights the urgent need for action,” he stated.
The documentary features the story of Ms. Sophia Byogero, a resident of Kaza Zone, who lost her child to drowning while attempting to take them to the hospital at night.
“Along our journey, the lake grew restless. Our small boat was unable to handle the turmoil, and it eventually overturned,” Ms. Byogero recounted, her voice heavy with grief.
RAHU’s Country Director, Benson Muhindo, emphasized the need for swimming lessons to be integrated into school curricula and for community swimming pools to be established.
“We have identified three areas in affected districts where swimming pools will be built to teach basic water safety and survival skills,” he announced.
Mr. Joe Kigozi, a RAHU Board Member representing Ms. Edna Mbabazi, RAHU Board Director, reiterated that drowning prevention is not just a safety measure but a critical public health priority, particularly for Uganda’s predominantly young population.
The documentary premiere was attended by government officials, civil society organizations, and development partners, who emphasized the need for coordinated strategies to mitigate drowning risks.
Commissioner Sowed Ssewagudde from the Department of International & Transboundary Water Affairs at the Ministry of Water & Environment revealed that UGX 14 billion is required to strengthen interventions at various water bodies and communities.
“Out of the UGX 25 billion needed, UGX 11 billion has already been sourced through ongoing activities. The remaining UGX 14 billion is required for implementing key interventions such as early warning systems, teaching schoolchildren to swim, and purchasing water ambulances to improve rescue operations,” he explained.
The Unpredictable Waters aims to amplify voices, drive policy reform, and mobilize resources to combat Uganda’s drowning crisis.
