Lightning Deaths Rise as ACLENet and Local Governments Strengthen Community Protection Across Uganda

What the report says

Uganda is in the peak of its second rainy season, and Watchdog Uganda reports that lightning continues to cause deaths, injuries and property damage in schools, churches, homes and open fields. The article says recent incidents, including a family death in Maracha District and earlier cases in Oyam, Lamwo and Nebbi, show the country’s ongoing exposure to lightning-related disasters, especially in rural areas with limited protection systems.

The report centers on the work of the African Centres for Lightning Education Network (ACLENet), which says it is working with local governments and other partners to reduce lightning risks through education, technical support and lightning protection installations. ACLENet communications director Jane Kisha said the goal is to lower deaths and injuries through awareness campaigns, safety training and better infrastructure. The organization has also been holding school and community sessions to explain lightning safety and address common misconceptions.

In Tororo District, ACLENet carried out a sensitization programme on 4 August, visiting Rock View Primary School and meeting district officials. Local authorities pledged support, including free radio airtime on two stations for public education. The article says ACLENet has formal agreements with several districts, including Tororo, Kiryandongo and Bushenyi, and works in others across Uganda.

According to the report, ACLENet has installed lightning protection systems in nine schools and created 11 Lightning Safety Clubs. It also says the group has investigated major incidents for more than a decade and built a lightning incident database that informs disaster planning. The broader point is that Uganda’s lightning risk is being addressed through a mix of public education, school protection and local government cooperation.