MUGABE R
The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Rukungiri District, Buroni Kikanshemeza, has criticized the district education department for allegedly neglecting its oversight role, which he says has allowed unlicensed schools to operate and put learners’ lives at risk.
Kikanshemeza made the remarks following a tragic incident at Rwerere SDA Nursery and Primary School in Rwerere Town Council on Thursday, April 16, 2026, where a windstorm caused a classroom block to collapse, killing one pupil and injuring four others.
The deceased, Princess Ashaba, a 12-year-old Primary Three pupil and daughter of a teacher at the same school, reportedly sustained severe injuries after being struck by falling bricks. She later died while being rushed to hospital. Four other pupils—Abinsinguza Emmanuel (8), Azahura Treasure (7), Ainembabazi Mercy (10), and Mugarura Onesmus (7)—suffered serious injuries and were admitted to Kambuga Hospital and nearby health facilities.
According to reports, the incident occurred at around 1:00 p.m. while learners were having lunch. A sudden windstorm uprooted a tree and caused part of a school structure to collapse, trapping several pupils under the debris.
Kikanshemeza pointed out that despite the presence of school inspectors at sub-county level, some institutions continue to operate without proper licensing and inspection. He pledged to launch investigations into the matter and ensure that any non-compliant schools are either regularized or closed.
A school staff member, Immaculate Niwenyesiga, said the children had been peacefully taking lunch when strong winds began blowing dust across the compound. Moments later, parts of the building collapsed, leaving several pupils in urgent need of rescue.
Area resident Gracius Kusasira Kayasi described the windstorm as unusually strong, noting that it moved in a specific direction while destroying property, including solar panels and satellite equipment on nearby homes.
Rukungiri District Police Commander, SSP Brian Ampaire, extended condolences to the affected families and attributed the incident partly to negligence in monitoring learners during such emergencies.
The RDC has since called for an open meeting scheduled for Monday, April 20, 2026, aimed at consoling the affected families and assessing safety standards in schools across the district.
