Oyam, Uganda – A quiet night turned tragic on November 24, 2024, when a boat carrying four passengers capsized on the River Nile near Kamdini sub-county in Oyam district.
The accident, which occurred at around 9:30 p.m., has left two districts in mourning and reignited concerns over the dangers of unsafe water transport.
The deceased have been identified as:
Ojok Sabastiano, 58, a farmer from Diicunyi village, Juma parish, Kamdini sub-county, Oyam district.
Hassan Muhammad, 43, a farmer from Kololo village, Laboke parish, Nyamahasa sub-county, Kiryandongo district.
Agenonga Stephi, 36, a boda-boda rider from Nanda Game village, Laboke parish, Nyamahasa sub-county, Kiryandongo district.
Ocircan David, also known as Museveni, 36, a farmer from Kololo village, Laboke parish, Nyamahasa sub-county, Kiryandongo district.
According to ASP Odong Alfred, Officer in Charge of Kamdini Police Station, the boat was being used to cross the river when it capsized.
However, the lack of modern transport infrastructure forces many to rely on traditional canoes, which often lack life jackets and other safety provisions.
Night crossings are particularly dangerous due to low visibility and strong river currents.
This tragedy highlights the vulnerability of communities dependent on such risky methods of transportation. Despite numerous accidents over the years, little has been done to provide safer alternatives.
The accident has devastated the local communities. Family members and friends of the deceased gathered in mourning as the region struggles to come to terms with the loss.
“We have lost good men,” said a local leader in Diicunyi village. “They were providers, workers, and neighbors we relied on.”
The incident has sparked renewed calls for government intervention. Local leaders are urging authorities to provide proper ferry services or establish bridges to facilitate safe crossings.
“This is not the first time we’ve lost lives on this river,” SP Okema added. “We need action now—investment in infrastructure, community sensitization, and enforcement of safety regulations.”
While the bereaved families prepare to lay their loved ones to rest, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the challenges of unsafe water transport.
As local authorities and community leaders call for improved infrastructure and safety awareness, many hope that this incident will finally spark meaningful change to protect lives along the River Nile.
Credit: TND News……………………………………………………
