Nine Residents of Ngoma District Killed by Lightning Laid to Rest(Photos)

Written by Noel Mporebuke

Nine residents of Ngoma District who were tragically killed by a lightning strike have been laid to rest in a ceremony attended by national and local leaders, as well as members of the community from the Eastern Province.

The victims lost their lives after being struck by lightning while sheltering from heavy rain inside a house belonging to a farmer who was guarding a rice field. The incident shocked the local community and sparked nationwide sympathy.

The burial ceremony was attended by the Governor of the Eastern Province, Pudence Rubingisa, the Commander of the Rwanda Defence Forces in the Eastern Province and the City of Kigali, Major General Ruki Karusisi, along with other security officials, district leaders, and residents.

The victims who were laid to rest include:

1. Emmanuel Uwaribonye (34), from Murama Village, Kibimba Cell

2. Jean Habiyaremye (32), from Remera Village, Kigoma Cell

3. Eric Nshimiyimana (37), from Murama Village, Kibimba Cell

4. Nkundimana (27), from Akaziba Village, Kibimba Cell

5. Elroi Niyomungeri (8), from Village 08, Murama, Kibimba Cell

6. Jean Claude Ishimwe (25), from Abiyunze Village, Jarama

7. Mutoni (25), from Mubaha Village, Kigoma Cell

8. Claudine Benegusenga (5), from Village 05, Iramiro, Kigoma Cell

9. Uwamariya (37), from Iramiro Village, Kigoma Cell

Local authorities expressed condolences to the bereaved families and urged residents to take precautions during the rainy season, especially when thunderstorms occur. Officials emphasized the importance of avoiding sheltering in unsafe structures during storms to reduce the risk of similar tragedies.

The Government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting affected families and raising public awareness about lightning safety measures.