Locals in the Butte landing site in the Mayuge district in Baitambogwe subcounty are in shock after two fishermen who had gone fishing on Lake Victoria drowned to death in the wee hours of the morning on February 17, 2025.
Initially, three fishermen; Omusi, Mwenjeni, and John Mujuni went to fish on Lake Victoria when the winds became so rough mid-lake, causing their small boat to capsize and quickly submerge into the water.
Unfortunately, Omusi and Mwenjeni drowned to death while their colleague Mujuni was salvaged by the life jacket he was wearing.
Mujun narrated the horrifying ordeal, saying he was able to stay afloat on the water until he reached the shores for help.
’’I thank God for a second chance to live because what we faced on the waters was hell on earth, and I will never forget that experience,’’ Mujuni said.
The regional police spokesperson for the Busoga East Policing region, SP Michael Kafayo, confirmed the incident and revealed that the bodies of the deceased are still missing.
SP Kafayo appreciated Mujuni for wearing protective gear, which saved him from the death and wrath of the Lake Victoria waters.
’’We are still going to investigate what really caused the death of the other two fishermen despite all evidence pointing to the strong winds as the cause of their death,’’ Kafayo noted.
Authorities called upon all fishermen and locals to continue wearing and buying quality life jackets whenever they are to move on water because they are helpful whenever there is danger of drowning or mechanical malfunctioning of boats.
In 2024 many people have lost their lives on Lake Victoria due to too many reasons, including harsh weather conditions, strong winds and heavy waves, mechanical issues of boats, and recklessness of the locals and fishermen too.
On September 30, 2024, another tragic incident occurred when a boat capsized in Lujabwa village, Kalangala District, leading to multiple drownings. Survivors indicated that strong winds and overloading were factors contributing to the accident.
These incidents highlight ongoing safety concerns regarding boat travels on Lake Victoria, particularly related to overloading and adverse weather conditions.
