By Obed Kithende
Two people have died by drowning in Kasese District this evening while attempting to cross Rivers Thako and Nyamwamba, according to local officials.
The Parish Woman Councillor for Kisolholho in Karambi Sub-county, Hawa Biira Atholere, confirmed one of the incidents and identified the deceased as Nya Savior, a resident of Kisolholho Village.
In a separate incident on River Nyamwamba, an 18-year-old girl identified as Christine Kyakimwa drowned at the Kyanjuki crossing point in Bulembia Division, Kasese Municipality.
Local reports indicate that Kyakimwa was returning from a confirmation service presided over by the Bishop of South Rwenzori Diocese, Rt. Rev. Nason Baluku, at St. Stephen Joint Church Kyanjuki.
She reportedly arrived at the river together with her mother and neighbors when water levels had risen beyond normal.
Residents who had already crossed reportedly warned the group against attempting to cross, but they proceeded with the help of two local rescuers who re-entered the flooded river.
As they reached the middle, strong currents overpowered one of the rescuers and swept Kyakimwa away.
Her mother narrowly survived after attempting to rescue her.
Police, Red Cross officials, Rev. Charles Bikanja, and community leader Hedmon Mwanguhya are coordinating search efforts at the scene.
Kasese District Secretary for Disaster Preparedness Joseph Isingoma has urged residents to avoid crossing flooded rivers during heavy rains.
