Kasese school attack: Gov’t gives shs5m to families of victims

KAMPALA, UGANDA: Government through the Ministry of Education and Sports has given shs5m to the families of each of the 42 people that were killed in Friday’s attack on Mpondwe Lhubiriha Secondary School in Kasese by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF).

Upon meeting parents and other relatives of the 41 students that perished, the State Minister for Higher Education, Hon John Chrysostom Muyingo who represented Education Minister and First Lady Mrs Janet Museveni, on Saturday said the money was intended to support the bereaved families in conducting burials of their loved ones.

“Mama Janet Museveni said that I give each one of you sh5m to aid you conduct burials for your dear ones,” Muyingo said.

The Minister further added that Mrs Museveni had extended her heartfelt condolences to the affected families and called upon all countrymen and women to condole with the people of Kasese, especially the immediate affected families as they go through these dark days.

He condemned the attack that resulted in the loss of lives of young, innocent and humble souls, adding that that country has lost the leaders of tomorrow.

“It is very unfortunate to lose these little ones, especially as we are in our evening. We expect them to take in our footsteps,” Muyingo said.

The six students nursing injuries at Bwera General Hospital as well as those referred to Mulago and Mbarara hospitals were also given sh2m each to cover medical expenses.

Upon receiving the condolence from the government, some parents thanked the government for the kind gesture and for being with them as they mourn their dear ones.

Kamali Muhindo who lost a child in the attack, noted that they drew up a budget of sh9m for the burial activities.

“I thank the Government of Uganda that has facilitated almost 50% of the burial ceremony of my child,” he said.

Muhairwa Asiimwe said she was very grateful for the government’s gesture that enabled her to get burial preparations underway since she has earlier failed to raise enough funds to buy a coffin for her daughter.