Rukungiri MP Aspirant Nabaasa Innocent Constructs Temporary Bridge After Drownings at River Kanshekye

At least five school-going children and one woman have reportedly drowned at the Karushekye crossing point on River Kanshekye, a dangerous shortcut between Bikurungu and Nyarwimuka parish in Rukungiri District.

The river, which borders Ruhinda and Bwambara sub-counties in Rujumbura Constituency, has long posed a threat to residents, especially during the rainy season when it floods and becomes impassable.

The situation gets worse when it rains heavily 

On April 9, 2025, during a visit to the site, Rukungiri Woman MP aspirant Innocent Nabaasa Kashobera witnessed firsthand the risk faced by residents who rely on the unprotected river crossing for daily movement.

Local Council Chairperson Wallen Niwagaba of Kashekye II village shared the tragic history of drownings at the site and pleaded for urgent intervention.

Niwagaba said local leaders have repeatedly petitioned past elected officials to construct a permanent bridge across the river, but their cries have fallen on deaf ears.

Innocent Nabaasa listening to the village leaders

He emphasized that the crossing is a vital link between the two sub-counties and is frequently used by school children, farmers, and market vendors.

Nabaasa expressed deep concern over the situation and questioned why such a critical infrastructure need had not been addressed.

In response, she pledged to personally support the construction of a temporary bridge through the LC1 office and committed to lobbying government institutions for a long-term solution.

“Every life matters, the people of Bikurungu and Ruhinda should not continue suffering. I will use my own resources to support the temporary bridge as we push for a permanent one.” Nabaasa noted.

Residents welcomed her pledge with hope. Generous Nshekanabo, a Karushekye local, said crossing the river has been a nightmare for years, often costing lives.

Kenneth Birayabarema, the lay leader at Nyamitooma Church of Uganda in Kanshekye II village, highlighted how the lack of a bridge hinders both business and education.

He noted that many children from Nyarwimuka attend Nyamitooma Primary School but face daily risks when crossing the river.

Nabaasa underscored that the bridge is essential not just for safety but for economic empowerment. The route is a key pathway for agricultural produce destined for Bikurungu's weekly market. She emphasized the need to prioritize the bridge to enhance trade and improve livelihoods in the community.