Two juveniles have died in Mulimira Zone, Bukoto, after heavy rainfall and flash floods swept through parts of Kampala early Wednesday morning, in a tragic start to the city’s rainy season.According to the Uganda Red Cross, the children were left alone in their home overnight as their mother went out to fend for them.
By the time the rain began in the early morning hours, she had not returned.
The room where the children were staying was flooded, and they were later found dead.“Our response team was called to support the community,” said Uganda Red Cross spokesperson Irene Nakasiita.
“Many houses are flooded and household property has been destroyed. The assessment team is still on the ground, working with local leaders and the Police.”
The heartbreaking incident has brought renewed attention to the dangers of Kampala’s poor drainage infrastructure and the devastating consequences it can have on vulnerable families, particularly those in low-income neighborhoods like Bukoto.
City in Chaos
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Elsewhere in the city, floodwaters caused massive disruptions. Roads in Banda, Kyambogo, and Kinawataka (Katogo) became impassable, stranding motorists and commuters during the morning rush hour.
Michael Kananura, spokesperson for the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, advised motorists to avoid the affected areas and, where possible, delay their journeys.
“Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas, as vehicles can become buoyant and lose traction,” Kananura warned. “It’s better to postpone your journey than to risk your life.”
Even parts of the Northern Bypass—recommended as an alternative route—were submerged, further complicating traffic and emergency response efforts.
A City Unprepared
The floods once again expose the fragility of Kampala’s urban infrastructure. Flash floods have become increasingly common, especially during the rainy season, due to poor drainage, clogged culverts, and unchecked construction on wetlands.
Residents took to social media to document the morning chaos. “Bukoto is a disaster zone. Water everywhere, and now we hear kids have died. This shouldn’t be happening,” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter).
Calls for Urgent Action
Environmental experts and civil society groups have repeatedly warned that without serious investment in drainage systems and better urban planning, Kampala will continue to face deadly floods with every major downpour.
As cleanup and recovery efforts begin, authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant. The Uganda Red Cross continues to coordinate with local leaders and police to assess damage and support displaced families.
“We encourage all residents to be cautious as the heavy rain season sets in,” Nakasiita urged. “These floods are not just inconvenient—they are deadly.”
