WLEDE stands in solidarity with the families and communities affected by the recent lightning strike at Palabek Refugee Camp in northern Uganda, which claimed 14 lives and left many others injured during a prayer service. This devastating event underscores Uganda’s vulnerability to deadly lightning strikes, an ongoing risk exacerbated by recent unseasonably heavy rains.

Uganda faces one of the world’s highest death rates from lightning strikes, and this tragedy is a painful reminder of the need for better safety infrastructure and preventive awareness in vulnerable areas. The urgency of this issue is further highlighted by previous incidents: in 2020, a lightning strike in Arua District claimed the lives of 10 children playing football, nine of whom were killed instantly, with one succumbing on the way to the hospital. Earlier, in 2011, a similar tragedy struck Kiryandongo District, taking the lives of 18 students and their teacher, with an additional 38 children hospitalized.

Advocating for Safety in Vulnerable Communities

The frequency and impact of lightning strikes in Uganda call for coordinated efforts to ensure safety in high-risk areas, particularly in refugee camps like Palabek. Refugee settlements often have limited infrastructure, leaving residents exposed to severe weather events without adequate protection.

A Call for Urgent Action

WLEDE advocates for the following immediate measures:

1. Installation of Lightning Protection Systems: Refugee camps and densely populated areas should be equipped with lightning arrestors to safeguard lives, especially in public gathering places, schools, and health centers.
2. Training and Awareness Programs: Safety training on lightning risk management, such as avoiding open fields during storms, can empower communities to take preventive actions.
3. Collaborative Safety Measures: Local authorities, humanitarian organizations, and government agencies must work together to make safety a priority in Uganda’s high-risk regions, ensuring refugee and community facilities offer protection against environmental hazards.

Standing Together for Safety

As WLEDE advocates for measures to protect vulnerable populations from both immediate and environmental threats, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this tragedy. Together, through coordinated action and raised awareness, we can work towards creating safer communities resilient against the dangers of severe weather events. For further updates on our advocacy and safety initiatives, please visit our website or follow us on social media.