Two elderly residents are in critical condition after being struck by lightning during local council elections in Kabale district.
The victims, Moses Kenaama (69) and Faith Bushambire (73), both from Habugarama village in Kitoma parish, Rubaya sub-county, were among the voters who had gathered on Thursday to cast their votes.
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Jovia Kenaama, the wife of the late Kenaama, recounted that the weather suddenly changed during the election process, prompting many—including the elderly—to take refuge in a nearby house. It was while they were inside that lightning struck, injuring the two.
They were immediately taken to Kitooma Health Centre III, where they remain in critical condition under close medical supervision. Kabale, located in the Kigezi sub-region, is known for frequent lightning incidents.
According to the National Risk and Vulnerability Atlas of Uganda (2021), Kigezi ranks among the areas most affected by lightning in the country. This recent incident is one of several fatal or near-fatal lightning strikes reported in the region over the years.
In March 2023, lightning killed 75-year-old Olly Baryakabuza and his 30-year-old son Enoth Tukwasiibwe in Rukungiri district. That same month, in Rubanda district, Ambrose Kanunu (35) and his two sons—seven-year-old Justus Asiimwe and five-year-old Arnold Habomugisha—were also killed.
Earlier, in October 2013, Fortunate Ainembabazi lost her life while collecting rainwater in Rukiga district. On the same day, four more people—including Geoffrey Rukurukyu of Kamutungu village and Joniva Tibeingana (43) with her children Ibra Niwamumpaire (20) and Given Tindimwebwa (17)—also perished in similar lightning-related incidents in Rubanda and Rukiga.
Local authorities continue to urge the government to invest in lightning protection infrastructure, such as arrestors and early-warning systems, and to enhance public education on lightning safety during the rainy season.
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