Devastating cyclonic winds have struck Kalangala Islands on Lake Victoria, causing significant destruction in Kalangala District.

The storm happened on March 15, 2025, causing widespread destruction of property, demolishing homes and infrastructure, and reportedly claiming lives on the Kalangala Islands.

Initial reports indicate that the Kalangala Central Police Station was severely damaged, with multiple sources suggesting that at least four people, including police officers and community members, were killed and several others injured.

There have reportedly been over 300 destroyed homes, leaving hundreds of residents homeless and in urgent need of assistance.

The Uganda Red Cross and local leaders have been reported as responding to the crisis, though precise figures on injuries and the extent of destruction are still being determined.

Kalangala MP, Hellen Nakimuli, has called for urgent government intervention, highlighting residents’ frustration over what they perceive as a slow response from authorities.

She noted that many remain stranded without shelter, food, or essential supplies.

“You can imagine, up until now, people are suffering, homeless, and no one is bothered. I’m so surprised as to why the government is not prioritizing fishing communities and islands,” Nakimuli said.

Moses Kabusu Kyamuswa, Kalangala County MP, also added that this is not the first time the government has neglected the people of Kalangala for unknown reasons.

’’I call upon the office of the prime minister to intervene immediately and rescue our people from such a situation. Yes, we have donated the little we have, but it’s not enough for the population,” Kyamuswa emphasized.

In response to the crisis, Deputy RDC Henry Lubuulwa has assured residents that the government plans to intervene and provide necessary support during the course of this week.

This announcement has offered some relief to the affected residents, who continue to struggle with the devastation caused by the cyclone.

The Kalangala cyclone aligns with a pattern of increasing extreme weather events in East Africa, potentially linked to climate change, and fishing communities, like those in Kalangala, are particularly vulnerable due to their reliance on fragile infrastructure and proximity to water.

The incident has highlighted the critical need for timely government intervention and support during natural disasters to prevent further hardship and loss.