Buikwe, (UG):- Tragedy struck Kiyindi Landing Site in Buikwe District on Monday after two people drowned in Lake Victoria while washing a carpet at Kiyindi landing site.
The deceased have been identified as Julius Kiyingi, 21, and Prince Tuyishime, 14, both residents of Nakawuma Cell, Kiyindi Town Council while a third victim, Jothan Gidudu, 10, narrowly survived the incident after being rescued by local fishermen.
“The victims had gone to wash the carpet to earn some money, as children are on holiday,” said Mr. Anatoli Kizza, a resident of Kiyindi Landing Site.
Mr. Joseph Kiwanuka, another resident, revealed that instead of washing the carpet at the landing site, the victims ventured to a more secluded area with deeper water. “One of them slipped into the water, and the other attempted to save him, but sadly, both drowned,” he explained.
Ssezibwa Police Spokesperson, Ms. Hellen Butoto, confirmed the incident, stating that it was reported to the police by Mr. Joel Wasswa, a local resident. With assistance from fishermen, the police recovered the bodies and handed them over to the relatives for burial.
“I urge parents to monitor their children’s activities during this long holiday. They should not be sent out without the company of an adult,” Ms. Butoto cautioned.
This incident comes amidst alarming statistics on drowning in Uganda. A World Health Organization (WHO) report released last week in Kampala highlighted that Uganda recorded 1,332 drowning deaths in 2018, with estimates rising to 2,000 by 2021.
Local authorities continue to emphasize the importance of safety around water bodies, especially during the school holiday season.
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