Jinja District authorities have suspended all tourism and leisure activities at Itanda Falls after a Kampala International University student drowned in the River Nile over the weekend. The decision follows a string of similar incidents that have raised concerns about safety at popular water sites.
The victim, Franco Maino, 25, from Kakira Town Council, had visited the falls with friends on Saturday. Witnesses say he attempted to swim in the fast-moving water and was quickly overpowered by the currents. He was swept into the rapids before help could reach him.
A short video captured by bystanders shows Maino struggling in the water while four people on the riverbank shout for help, apparently trying to alert lifesavers stationed at the site. None of the onlookers were able to intervene.
Jinja Deputy Resident District Commissioner Hassan Kasibante confirmed the incident and described it as a painful loss to both the family and the university. He said Itanda Falls and nearby Busowoko Falls have recorded several drowning cases in recent months, prompting a renewed push for stronger safety standards.
Kasibante said the district has halted all operations at Itanda Falls as police, NEMA, the District Security Committee and other agencies investigate what happened and review safety protocols. The suspension will remain in place until authorities complete the assessment.
The temporary closure is intended to allow a full review of risk-management measures at the site, which is known for its powerful grade-five rapids and attracts both local and international visitors for rafting and nature activities.
Uganda continues to report high numbers of drowning cases each year. Data from the Ministry of Works and Transport and the Police Marine Unit shows that more than 1,200 people drown annually, mostly in lakes, rivers and unregulated recreational spots. Many incidents involve swimming, fishing, boating or informal water transport, often in areas with limited supervision, weak enforcement and inadequate safety signage.
Government agencies, NGOs and private operators have rolled out several prevention measures in recent years, including stricter life-jacket rules, marine safety training and community sensitisation. But gaps in enforcement, combined with growing domestic tourism, continue to expose many people to dangerous water conditions.
