Lucky P
Ugandan authorities have announced the closure of at least seven primary and secondary schools in the western part of Ntoroko district as a result of severe flooding caused by heavy rainfall.
Edward Bashungura, the Resident District Commissioner for Ntoroko, informed yesterday informed our reporter that the heavy rains have led to the overflowing of a nearby river and lake, resulting in significant flooding.
“About 20 villages have been impacted by the flooding from River Semliki and Lake Albert, causing many schools to be submerged,” Bashungura explained.
“For the safety of the children, we had no option but to close the schools. More schools are currently being assessed and may also face closure,” he added.
Bashungura further reported that the floods have affected around 20,000 people in these villages.
“What we urgently need are the restoration of washed-away bridges, tents for schools, shelters for displaced villagers, food, and water purifiers,” he stated, noting that some affected residents are now living in shelters and camps for internally displaced persons.
This development comes after the government’s meteorological department warned last week that the country would experience heavy rains and lightning strikes in early August.
