NEMA shuts Down Busowoko Falls Resort Beach After Drowning, Cites Violations

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has issued a stop order for all activities and operations at Busowoko Falls Resort Beach, located on the banks of the River nile in Busowoko village, nawampanda Parish, Butagaya sub county, Jinja district.

“…take notice that you are hereby ordered to stop with immediate effect all recreational, commercial, construction and related operations at busowoko Falls Resort Beach within the 100-metre protection zone of the River Nile and also stop any associated activities that may cause environmental degradation and endanger the public…”, reads part of the Order.

The order was issued by Dr. Barirega Akankwasah, the Executive Director of NEMA, following the tragic drowning of Eng. Gershom Rwakasanga Kateera, a senior engineer with the Jinja City-based Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC).

Eng. Rwakasanga Kateera and his daughter visited Busowoko Falls Resort Beach on October 11, 2025. While taking photographs and enjoying the scenery, he slipped and fell into the River Nile. Despite rescue efforts, his body was recovered several kilometers downstream on October 12, 2025.

NEMA Uncovers Multiple Violations

NEMA, in a letter addressed to the Manager of Busowoko Falls Resort Beach, with particular attention to Suuta Abdullah, stated the shutdown resulted from non-compliance with environmental and safety protocols.

Dr. Akankwasah’s four-page letter detailed that NEMA officials conducted an environmental audit revealing several deficiencies that necessitated the closure.

The letter revealed a series of environmental and safety violations. The inspection report found the resort operating in contravention of several regulations,posing significant risks to the environment and public safety.

Specifically,no Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) was conducted before developing the site,and the facility lacks an Environmental and Social Impact certificate,violating Regulations 34(1-2) and 20(b) of the National Environment (Wetlands,River Banks and Lake Shores management),Regulations No 3 of 2000 and Regulations 25 of The National Environment (Environment and Social Assessment) Regulations,2020.

Key Findings

• Unauthorized Structures: Permanent structures, including a wooden bridge, bar, and restaurant, were constructed and operating within the 100-metre protection zone of the River Nile, violating environmental regulations.
• Inadequate Safety Protocols: No visible environmental or safety signage, warning notices, or demarcations existed in restricted areas. Visitors were not provided with safety gear or protective equipment such as life jackets, helmets, or non-slip footwear.
• Uncontrolled Visitor Movement: The absence of demarcated pathways and walkways led to uncontrolled visitor movement within sensitive and high-risk areas of the riverbank.
• Environmental Degradation: Unsegregated solid waste…