Nebbi, Uganda: A teenage girl died on the spot and another was left nursing injuries after lightning struck Jupuryek Village in Jupangira Sub County, Nebbi District, in a Sunday afternoon storm.
The tragic incident occurred at around 2 p.m. on October 26, 2025, when the victims were struck as they played outside following a morning church service.
The deceased, identified as Acen Nakato, died upon arrival at Goli Health Centre IV, while Nema, an 11-year-old pupil at Goli Mixed Primary School, survived with serious injuries and remains in stable condition.
According to eyewitnesses, the two children had earlier attended a service at St. Stephen’s Cathedral Goli with their parents before returning home.
Adegitho Collins, the father of the deceased, recounted the heartbreaking sequence of events.
“We had attended church service at around 9 a.m., and after returning home, the children went out to collect beans that were drying because of the impending rain,” he said. “Later, I was told they went to play in a nearby house, and it was then that lightning struck.”
The LCII Chairperson of Jupangira Parish, Mr. David Okok, described the death as a devastating loss for the community.
“I received the news while at home and immediately rushed to the scene. It’s a terrible tragedy for the family and the entire village,” he said.
Hon. Sunday Ugenmungu, the LCIII Chairperson of Jupangira Sub County, also expressed sorrow and solidarity with the bereaved family.
“This sudden death has come as a shock to all of us. We pray for the family to find strength and comfort during this painful time,” he said.
Police officers from Goli Customs Station visited the scene and have since launched an investigation into the incident.
The deceased’s body was later taken to her ancestral home in Nyapea Sub County, Moria, for burial.
This latest incident follows a similar tragedy last year in Dhew Sub County, Nebbi District, where more than 70 pupils were struck and hospitalized after lightning hit a school playground during a football game.
Local leaders have since renewed calls for increased public awareness on lightning safety and installation of lightning arresters in schools and public facilities across the district.
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