Government Pushes for Swimming Lessons Amid Drowning Surge
The Ugandan government is encouraging its citizens to take swimming lessons as part of a broader campaign to reduce the growing number of drowning deaths across the country. This call comes just days before World Drowning Prevention Day, observed annually on July 25.
Dr. Charles Luzige, the Assistant Commissioner for Maritime Monitoring at the Ministry of Works and Transport, made a passionate appeal for people, especially in urban centres like Kampala, to treat swimming as more than a recreational activity.
“Swimming is not just a sport, it’s a survival skill, especially when every other safeguard fails.”
— Dr. Charles Luzige, Ministry of Works and Transport
Frequent flash floods in areas like Clock Tower and Meat Packers have left residents vulnerable, even as the government works to upgrade drainage systems.
According to Dr. Frederick Oporia of Makerere University’s Trauma and Injury Control Centre, Uganda loses an average of eight people daily to drowning, making it one of the country’s top public health concerns.
“Over the past three years, drowning has ranked among the top three causes of death in Sub-Saharan Africa, alongside malaria and HIV/AIDS.”
— Dr. Frederick Oporia, Makerere University
A 2021 study documented 3,500 drowning deaths in just 2.5 years across 74 districts. Health experts believe these figures are likely underestimated.
To improve national emergency response, a central rescue command hub in Entebbe has been established. Satellite rescue centres are now operating in Panyimur, Kaisotonya, and Lake Kyoga, all areas deemed high-risk.
Districts flagged for high vulnerability include Masaka, Mayuge, Kyotera, Soroti, Rakai, and Serere, many of which suffer from poor drainage and limited access to swimming facilities.
The tragic death of seven people during flash floods in March was a painful reminder of how dangerous unpreparedness can be. With climate change accelerating weather unpredictability, authorities are urging Ugandans to stay alert, respond to weather warnings, and most critically learn how to swim.
As Uganda joins the world in marking World Drowning Prevention Day, the message is clear: water safety starts with you.
