Copper mining revival rekindles hopes of ending R. Nyamwamba floods

As the revival of copper mining in the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains at Kilembe nears completion, a section of leaders in Kasese are optimistic that the long-standing nightmare of River Nyamwamba flooding could soon be resolved.

Located in present-day Bulembya Division, Kasese Municipality, Kilembe Mines Limited had previously implemented mechanisms to prevent the river from flooding surrounding communities.

Richard Bomera, the LC3 chairperson of Bulembya Division, revealed that during the mining era, the companies operating in the area had acquired D10 machines that were permanently stationed in the river valley to carry out routine desilting.

“They had also installed early warning systems to alert them in case the river flooded. But ever since copper mining stopped, we have faced unmatched disastrous effects of River Nyamwamba floods,” Bomera said.

Since 2013, the devastating floods of River Nyamwamba have claimed more than 40 lives, destroyed property worth billions, and displaced thousands of residents into internally displaced persons (IDP) camps.

“Most bridges, roads, and school structures were washed away — and most painfully, Kilembe Mines Hospital, which used to effectively treat our people,” Bomera added.

A stretch of the completely washed away Kyanzuki bridge in Bulembya Division, Kasese Municipality. (Credit: Samuel Amanyire)

Kabbyanga speaks out

Godfrey Kabbyanga Baluku Kiime, the State Minister for ICT and National Guidance, stated that in order to ensure timely medical care for the new mine workers, Kilembe Mines Hospital will be rehabilitated.

“What I know, the new investor will address the challenge of River Nyamwamba floods in order to safely carry out mining activities without any disturbance,” he said.

Eliphazi Muhindi Bukombi, the Kasese LC5 chairperson, revealed that the revival of copper mining under the new contractor, Sarrai Group, will immediately lead to the rehabilitation of Kilembe Mines Hospital.

The move aims to ensure the hospital is equipped to handle emergencies arising from mining activities, as well as to provide adequate medical services to employees.

"To the community members, this is so glorious because previously the hospital used to extend services to over 20,000 local residents," Muhindi said.

Richard Bomera, the LC3 chairperson of Bulembya division, where the copper hills and Kilembe Mines Hospital are located, recounted the hospital’s previous reputation for super-standard services.

He noted that its high-profile equipment and skilled health workers, especially orthopaedic surgeons, once attracted patients from across East Africa to seek treatment in Kasese.