By Our Reporter
NATIONAL
The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development has released a statement shading more light on the earthquake that shook Lake Kyoga region districts on Sunday, 31st May, 2026.
The statement issued on Monday, 1st June, 2026 reads as follows:
The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development wishes to inform the public that an earth tremor was recorded on the evening of Sunday, 31st May, 2026 at 9:19:21 PM local time.
The tremor was felt across several parts of the country including Kampala, Lira, Apac, Gulu, Nakasongola, Masindi, Mbale, Jinja, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Lake Kyoga regions, and parts of Northern Uganda.
Preliminary analysis by the National Seismological network operated by the Ministry indicates that the earthquake measured 4.4 on the Richter Scale.
The epicenter was located within the Lake Kyoga region, approximately 25KMs North of Nakasongola Town and 53kms east of Masindi Port at a focal depth of about 10kms. An earthquake of this magnitude is considered light to moderate and is usually not very dangerous, especially if buildings are well constructed.
The earthquake is associated with movement along the Aswa Shear Zone (Aswa Lineament), a major geological structure that traverses parts of Uganda. The relatively shallow depth of the earthquake contributed to its being felt over a wide geographical area.
It is important to note that Uganda lies within the Western branch of the East African Rift system and occasionally experiences earthquakes of varying magnitudes.
The Ministry wishes to assure the general public that no significant damage to infrastructure, property, or loss of life has been reported so far.
Relevant government agencies continue to monitor the situation and assess any potential impacts.
The Ministry encourages the public to remain calm and to follow established earthquake safety guidelines.
During an earthquake, persons indoors should seek refuge under strong furniture, stay away from windows and falling objects and avoid using elevators.
Those outdoors should move to open areas away from buildings, trees and powerlines.
Motorists are advised to stop safely and remain alert to potential hazards. The Ministry through its National Seismological network will continue to closely monitor seismic activity across the country and provide timely updates whenever necessary.
