STAFF REPORTER
A sorrowful and emotional day unfolded as thousands of mourners gathered at Christ the King Catholic Church to bid farewell to the late Innocent Akunzire, the Head Teacher of Nyaburondo Primary School in Rukungiri District. Akunzire passed away on Friday at Karoli Lwanga Hospital Nyakibale due to cardiac arrest caused by high blood pressure.
The requiem mass was attended by a wide array of mourners, including Hon. Mary Paula Turyahikayo, the aspiring Woman Member of Parliament for Rukungiri District, along with heads and teachers of various schools, SACCO management representatives, business leaders, political and religious figures, friends, and family members.
A Life of Dedication and Service
Herbert Musasizi, Chairperson of all Head Teachers in Rukungiri, described Akunzire as a hardworking and committed individual who had dedicated his life to education since 1994. As the Vice Chairperson of all teachers in the district, Akunzire was known for his dedication, leadership, and contributions to various institutions, including churches, social organizations, and economic groups.
Tributes from Family and Friends
His children expressed their deep gratitude to the people of Rukungiri for their unwavering support during this difficult time. They described their father as a loving and prayerful man who was dedicated to education, resilient in the face of challenges, and always celebrated family achievements. Despite losing their mother a year ago, Akunzire remained steadfast in supporting his children and even extended his generosity to other children in need of education.
Hon. Mary Paula Turyahikayo, a close family friend, praised Akunzire’s devotion to prayer and his contributions as a civil servant in the education sector. She urged people to emulate his good deeds and announced that Boona FM would broadcast the burial ceremony live from Kamwezi in Kabale District.
A Legacy of Excellence
Jackson, the District Education Officer of Rukungiri, commended Akunzire’s unwavering commitment to his profession, describing him as an advisor and a passionate educator who consistently demonstrated excellence in government schools.
During the mass, Fr. Jeremiah urged Akunzire’s children to remain strong in the wake of losing both parents within a short span of time. He encouraged them to uphold their parents’ legacy and stay hopeful for a bright future. He reminded mourners to always be prepared for life’s challenges, emphasizing that death is inevitable and should inspire people to continue doing good in the world.
Final Resting Place
Innocent Akunzire will be laid to rest on Sunday at his ancestral home in Kamwezi, Kabale District. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
