Dear Fellow Citizens of Kasese, It is with a heavy heart that we are again witnessing the devastating impact of the frequent flooding of River Nyamwamba. Lives have been lost, homes destroyed, and communities are suffering greatly as a result. It is time for us to come together and take action to address this pressing issue before more lives are lost and more damage is inflicted on the communities and the wildlife in Queen Elizabeth.
I propose a three-step solution to combat the flooding in Kasese and protect God’s people living along River Nyamwamba from further tragedy.
The first step is we need to work with the government of Uganda to enforce laws against settlement in conservation areas, wetlands, and close proximity to riverbanks. This will require extensive sensitization efforts within the local community, as well as strategic planning to assist people in resettling in safer areas. We have seen the benefits of relocation in the case of Kilembe Hospital, where lives were saved by making the difficult decision to move. We must prioritize the safety and well-being of our community over convenience.
The second step is to implement di-silting of the River Nyamwamba. By removing excess sediment and debris that obstruct the flow of water, we can significantly reduce the risk of flooding and improve the overall health of the river and its ecosystem. Di-silting is a crucial measure that can help prevent future disasters and protect our community from harm.
Lastly, we must construct sturdy riverbanks to contain the water within its natural boundaries and reduce the likelihood of flooding. Reinforcing the riverbanks with robust materials can provide a long-term solution to the issue of flooding in our area, safeguarding our community from potential disaster. This is where I make an appeal to different stakeholders, NGOs and the government to step in and help the community in-act this solution for it requires resources and the technical knowledge our people may not have.
It is imperative that the government and local authorities prioritize these measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents of Kasese. By taking proactive steps to address the frequent flooding, we can prevent further loss of life and property damage in the future.
A few years ago, we visited River Nyamwamba to understand what actually happens and why does it flood. You may need to find out what our Laudato Youth Leader reporting when she visited the site and documented the story.
Let us come together, united in our resolve to protect our community and secure a better future for generations to come. The time to act is now. Together, we can find a lasting solution to the flooding of the River Nyamwamba and ensure the safety and prosperity of our beloved district.
Sincerely,
Br. Adolf
Laudato Youth Mentor
