7 dead in Lake Kyoga boat accident in Amolatar
Amolatar, Uganda – A tragic boat accident on Lake Kyoga in Amolatar District has claimed the lives of seven people after their vessel capsized on Friday morning, September 19, 2025.
The incident occurred at around 11:00 AM near Kiryanga Village, Kiryanga Parish in Acii Sub-county, when a boat carrying 36 passengers hit a stationary tree stump and overturned approximately 400 meters from the Kiryanga landing site.
According to territorial maritime police, the boat was transporting residents from Muchora Abino A village to escort a catechist attending a burial ceremony in Kiryanga village. Of the 36 people on board, 29 survived the ordeal, while seven tragically lost their lives.
The deceased have been identified as:
-
Odeke Steven (65), LC1 Chairperson of Muchora Abino A village, Acii Sub-county, Amolatar District
-
Aguti Catherine (55), from Okwalongen Sub-county, Dokolo District
-
Abonyo Sylvia (35), resident of Amuda village, Soroti District
-
Ogwal Jaspher (38), from Corner Bileo Trading Centre, Arwotcek Sub-county, Amolatar District
-
Ejang Robina (30), resident of Alemere Bung cell, Epel Ward, Amolatar Town Council
-
Agwech Semmy (20), from Etam Sub-county, Amolatar District
-
An unidentified male adult, whose body is yet to be claimed.
The bodies of the victims were taken to Amolatar Health Centre IV mortuary for post-mortem examinations.
Authorities have since warned boat operators and passengers to exercise caution while traveling on Lake Kyoga, especially during the rainy season when visibility is poor and submerged objects pose a risk.
This latest tragedy adds to the recurrent water transport accidents on Lake Kyoga, underscoring ongoing safety concerns in the region.
