EDITOR
A 29-year-old welder, Isaac Akampurira, tragically lost his life after being electrocuted while working on a construction project in Rukungiri District.
Akampurira, a resident of Nyarushanje Sub-county who had been living in Rwabuteneka Cell, Kagashe Ward, Eastern Division, was welding balcony shades for the Crenios Building, commonly known as Omufumu, situated along Republic Road in Rukungiri Town. The ill-fated incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon.
An employee of Kahonaho Welding Workshop for over 12 years, Akampurira was recognized by colleagues and clients alike for his dedication and skill. The workshop, located near the Total Petrol Station in Rwabanyambo, had been subcontracted to handle the welding for the building under construction.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that a suspected electrical fault in the welding machine Akampurira was using led to the electrocution. He was immediately rushed to Quality Clinic in critical condition before being referred to Nyakibale Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Speaking to our reporter, Emmanuel Magara, a relative and prominent businessman in Rukungiri Municipality, mourned the loss of Akampurira. “He was a hardworking man, committed to his craft and always ready to support others. His death has left a big gap in our family and the welding community,” Magara said.
The incident has highlighted potential safety concerns in the handling of electrical equipment at construction sites. Authorities at Kahonaho Welding Workshop declined to comment on the matter when contacted, but community members have called for thorough investigations to prevent future tragedies.
As of press time, the police had not issued an official statement regarding the accident.
Akampurira’s untimely death has left his family, friends, and Co-workers grieving, with many remembering him as a skilled artisan and a dependable individual who contributed significantly to his trade.
