By Eye Media Uganda | Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Jinja — Authorities in Jinja District have moved swiftly to suspend all tourist and recreational activities at Itanda Falls following the tragic drowning of a Kampala University (KU) student over the weekend.
The deceased, Franco Maino, 25, a resident of Kakira Town Council, was swept away by the powerful Nile currents on Saturday afternoon after he reportedly attempted to swim during a visit to the falls with friends.
A short video recorded by onlookers captured Maino fighting for his life against the raging waters, as four individuals frantically called out for assistance. Lifesavers stationed at the site appeared too far to intervene in time.
Jinja Deputy Resident District Commissioner Hassan Kasibante confirmed the incident, describing the loss as “deeply painful” and a wake-up call to strengthen safety oversight at adventure tourism sites along the River Nile.
Kasibante said the district has halted all operations at Itanda Falls with immediate effect, pending a comprehensive investigation by the Uganda Police, NEMA, the District Security Committee, and other agencies.
“We have stopped all activities until we fully re-evaluate safety procedures. Several similar tragedies have occurred at both Itanda and Busowoko Falls. We cannot continue losing young people to preventable incidents,” Kasibante noted.
The temporary closure will allow authorities to assess gaps in supervision, risk management, signage, and lifesaving equipment at the popular site, famous for its fierce Grade Five rapids that attract hundreds of rafters and thrill-seekers each year.
Uganda continues to grapple with a high number of drownings across lakes and rivers. Statistics from the Ministry of Works and the Police Marine Unit indicate that over 1,200 people drown annually, many due to inadequate safety enforcement, poor awareness, and unregulated recreational activities.
Although government agencies and private operators have recently rolled out drowning-prevention initiatives — including mandatory life jackets, marine safety training, and community sensitisation — enforcement remains a challenge as domestic tourism grows.
Local leaders say the closure of Itanda Falls will remain in effect until a stronger safety framework is put in place to protect both tourists and residents.
