MITYANA, UGANDA 20 October 2025 —A 4-year-old pupil, Mutagwanya Angello Darius, tragically drowned yesterday in Mityana after being swept away by floodwaters while walking home from school during a heavy downpour.
The incident occurred around 5:00 PM on October 20, 2025, in Butega village, Kabuwambo Ward, Mityana Municipality. Darius, a pupil at Cosna Primary School and a resident of the same village, was reportedly on his way home when he was caught in the rain.
According to preliminary findings released by SP Kawala Racheal, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Wamala Region, Darius attempted to cross a stick bridge that was already submerged by fast-flowing water.
”He decided to pass over it, unfortunately, water swept him off the bridge and he fell in the trench of running water which took him to a distance of about 50 meters,” SP Racheal stated.
The child’s body was discovered lifeless by his parents shortly after the rain stopped.
Police Urge Caution and School Safety
Police were notified of the incident, and a postmortem examination has been conducted. The boy’s body has since been handed over to his family for burial. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
In light of the tragic loss, the Uganda Police issued a strong appeal to the public and educational institutions.
”We urge the public to take precautionary measures during heavy rains and avoid unnecessary movements during downpours,” the statement read.
They also directed a specific call to schools: “Schools must ensure the safety of children especially during extreme weather conditions.”
The incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by flash floods and running water in areas with inadequate drainage and infrastructure, particularly during the ongoing rainy season.
