Kagadi District, Uganda – A devastating boat accident on River Nkusi has claimed more lives, with Albertine Marine Police recovering two additional bodies, pushing the confirmed death toll to 12.
The fatal incident occurred on April 28 in Kyaleni Village, Pacwa Town Council, when a locally made canoe reportedly overloaded with between 30 and 40 passengers capsized while crossing the river. Witnesses say the vessel was also carrying heavy cargo, including multiple bags of charcoal, which may have contributed to the disaster.
Early reports indicate that only about eight people survived the tragedy , leaving dozens feared dead or missing in what is now one of the deadliest recent water accidents in the region.
Search and recovery operations remain ongoing, with marine police and professional divers combing the river for more victims. At the scene, Officer Kirungi addressed the media as anxious residents gathered along the riverbanks, watching rescue teams continue their grim task.
Authorities have yet to release a full list of the victims, and investigations into the exact cause of the capsize are underway. Officials are expected to scrutinize safety compliance, particularly regarding overloading and the use of non-standard boats.
This latest tragedy has reignited concerns over water transport safety in western Uganda, where communities often rely on improvised vessels with minimal regulation.
