EDITOR
The Bishop of the Diocese of Kigezi, Rt. Rev. Gaddie Akanjuna, has urged Christians to remain steadfast in faith and united in prayer, drawing inspiration from the biblical story of Job during times of pain and loss.
The Bishop made the call today while presiding over a mass burial service at Kyogo Church of Uganda in Kamwezi Sub-county, Rukiga District. A somber atmosphere surrounded the church as mourners gathered to bid farewell to seven members of one family who lost their lives in a tragic road accident.
The deceased—Sayuni Turihonabwe, Bredah Ainembabazi, Ivan Niwagaba, Keisha Atuhairwe, Keron Agaba, Keith Agaba, and Kenon Masiko—died on Saturday after the vehicle they were travelling in collided with a truck along the Masaka–Mbarara highway. The family was en route to attend a baptism ceremony.
Addressing the large congregation, Bishop Akanjuna described the loss as deeply painful and heartbreaking. He encouraged the bereaved family and the wider Christian community to lean on God for strength, emphasizing the importance of unity, prayer, and unwavering faith even in the darkest moments.
The Member of Parliament for Rukiga County, Hon. Rolland Ndyomugyenyi, expressed concern over the magnitude of the tragedy, noting that it was unprecedented in the area. He said the loss of seven people from a single family in one accident has instilled fear among residents and road users, particularly those who frequently travel long distances.
In a moving tribute, Benon Bulaali, the father of the late Ivan Niwagaba, shared his pain through a recorded message played to mourners. He recounted receiving the shocking news while bedridden, describing the loss as overwhelming and difficult to comprehend.
The tragedy has left the community in mourning, while leaders and believers continue to call for prayer, comfort, and road safety awareness.
