Summary:
- The storm affected several areas, including Toroma Sub-County, Amusia Sub-County, and Toroma Town Council, where houses, crops, poultry, and livestock were destroyed.
KATAKWI: This week, a hailstorm hit Katakwi District, causing widespread destruction and loss of property in various sub-counties.
The storm affected several areas, including Toroma Sub-County, Amusia Sub-County, and Toroma Town Council, where houses, crops, poultry, and livestock were destroyed.
Rashid Olinga, the LCI of Abobore village in Toroma Town Council, reported that 73 acres of simsim gardens, 74 gardens of cassava, 84 gardens of groundnuts, and 40 gardens of sorghum were destroyed. Additionally, 30 gardens of millet and 60 gardens of mixed groundnuts and maize were also affected.
Olinga added that livestock losses were significant, with 76 goats and over 400 chickens, belonging to people who benefited from the Parish Development Model, being killed in Abobore village alone.
Harriet Aarakit, a concerned community member, expressed her worries about the villagers’ future livelihoods, stating that hunger is the only foreseeable outcome for these areas.
Hellen Achen, the Speaker for Toroma Sub-County, confirmed the destruction and mentioned personal losses, including chickens recently received from the Vice President.
Adite Nora, a resident of Morunyang village, urged locals to seek forgiveness, viewing the hailstorm as a warning from God.
Geoffrey Omolo, the Katakwi District LCV, remarked on the severity of the disaster, describing it as one of the worst experienced in Toroma Sub-County due to heavy rainfall and hailstones. He noted the significant loss of livestock, birds, and crops as a severe blow to the community.
Omolo advised the community to implement mitigation measures to combat environmental destruction, such as planting trees and avoiding wetland encroachment.
Maj. Rtd. Godfrey Even Katamba, the RDC of Katakwi District, confirmed the extensive damage and urged affected communities to remain calm as they compile an emergency report for the Office of the Prime Minister.
