Kalangala residents are slowly rebuilding their lives after the destructive cyclone that swept through Bugala Island on 15 March, claiming four lives and leveling over 200 homes.
On Wednesday, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) delivered 7,440 iron sheets to affected households, along with cash support of Shs 5 million for each of the four families who lost loved ones and Shs 1 million for each of the 33 injured survivors. The iron sheets were distributed based on the severity of damage to each home.
The relief handover was held at Kalangala District Headquarters, Enju Yo We Ssaza (Bazibumbira), and led by Hon. Lillian Aber, Minister of State for Disaster Preparedness and Relief.
She was joined by Hon. Katumba Wamala, Minister of Works and Transport, and Commissioner Mwinye Davis from the OPM Disaster Department. District leaders, including Hon. Helen Nakimuli, District Woman MP, and Resty Nakawungu, Vice Chairperson LC5, also attended.
The cyclone, described by locals as “cyclone-like,” not only destroyed homes but also severely damaged key infrastructure, including the Kalangala Central Police Station and officers’ quarters.
The fatalities included Detective Sergeant Michael Mujaasi and his wife Allen Mujaasi, fisherman Godfrey Ssekiwere, and Hassan Wasswa, while dozens were injured and treated at local health centers.
Since the disaster, OPM and the Uganda Red Cross have provided emergency shelter, food, and essentials to nearly 1,000 affected households. Yet, many families are still struggling to recover, having lost nearly all their possessions.
Local leaders emphasized the ongoing vulnerability of island communities to extreme weather and urged investment in disaster preparedness, including first aid training and early warning systems.
Residents described the March storm as one of the most destructive in recent memory, highlighting the urgent need for stronger infrastructure and emergency response measures.
The latest relief effort marks a key step in helping Kalangala families restore their homes and regain a sense of security, signaling the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities through recovery and resilience programs.