Kasese district has been grappling with devastating floods caused by the overflowing of rivers like Nyamwamba. Climate change, with its erratic rainfall patterns, has exacerbated the problem. The consequences have been catastrophic, wiping out livelihoods, especially for farmers like Sunday Salveri who lost his entire fish farm.
At the heart of the issue lies the sedimentation of rivers. Years of deforestation, poor farming practices, and encroachment on riverbanks have led to the accumulation of soil, rocks, and debris in the riverbeds. This reduces the river’s capacity to hold water, leading to flash floods during heavy rains.
The government has initiated a multi-phase project to address the problem. The first phase involved clearing a critical 5.4-kilometer stretch of River Nyamwamba, removing debris and reinforcing the banks. However, the recent floods washed away parts of this work, highlighting the scale of the challenge.
The second phase will focus on a comprehensive desilting operation, requiring heavy machinery and significant investment. The goal is to restore the river’s natural flow and prevent future disasters.
While the project is underway, there is a long-term need for sustainable solutions. This includes reforestation, promoting sustainable farming practices, and enforcing stricter regulations on land use. By addressing both the immediate and long-term issues, Kasese can build resilience against the impacts of climate change and protect its vulnerable communities.
