Police in Rukungiri District are investigating a tragic incident in which a 12-year-old pupil lost her life and four others were injured after a school structure collapsed during a storm.
The incident occurred on April 16, 2026, at around 1:30 p.m. at Rwerere SDA Nursery and Primary School in Rwerere Town Council. According to police, the pupils were having lunch during their break when a strong windstorm struck, causing one of the school’s walls to give way.
The fallen wall reportedly collapsed onto five pupils who had taken shelter on the verandah. They were quickly rescued and rushed to a nearby private clinic. However, one of the victims, identified as Ashaba Princess, 12, died while being transported for further medical care.
The injured pupils have been identified as Abisnguza Emmanuel (8), Azahura Treasure (7), Ainembabazi Mercy (10), and Mugarura Onesmus (8), all learners at the same school. They were later referred to Kambuga Hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.
Police responded to the scene promptly after being notified, documented the incident, and opened a death inquiry file. The body of the deceased was taken to Buyanja Health Centre IV for a postmortem examination.
Kigezi Region Police spokesperson ASP Maate Elly said preliminary findings point to structural weaknesses in the affected building, raising concerns about the safety of similar school facilities.
He emphasized that the incident should serve as a warning to school authorities to ensure that buildings are structurally sound to protect learners.
“Investigations into the incident are ongoing”. He said.
