20 May Fire in Uganda claims lives of six South Sudanese children

A fire broke out at a home in Wakiso District, Uganda, claiming the lives of six South Sudanese children.

The incident occurred in Namulanda B Zone, Kisubi, as confirmed by Kampala’s Deputy Public Relations Officer, Luke Owoyesigyire.

The victims have been identified as Hibba William (16), Gith William (15), Dijwok William (12), Achwanj William (9), Teggi William (4), and Gloria William (2). Their mother, Ms Ayneg Bakhita, survived the incident with minor injuries, while their father was reportedly out of the country at the time.

Community members attempted to rescue the children but were unsuccessful. Owoyesigyire stated that officers from Kisubi Police Station, along with firefighters from Entebbe Police Division, responded promptly to the scene to contain the blaze.

“The fire was eventually extinguished, and the bodies of the children were recovered and taken to the city mortuary for post-mortem examinations,” Owoyesigyire reported.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire originated from an unattended electric kettle connected to a socket in the sitting room. Authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the precise cause of the fire.

The tragic incident has left the community in mourning, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced fire safety awareness and measures.