Two pupils killed, three injured as classroom collapses in Sheema
According to eyewitnesses, more than 30 pupils were inside the classroom when strong winds blew off its roof before one of the walls collapsed, burying some of the pupils under the rubble.
The tragedy occurred at about 3:30 pm on July 22, 2026, in Runyinya parish, Kigarama subcounty, during a heavy downpour accompanied by strong winds. ( Photo by Bruno Mugizi)
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Two Primary One pupils were killed and three others critically injured after a classroom collapsed at Runyinya Primary School in Sheema district.
The tragedy occurred at about 3:30 pm on July 22, 2026, in Runyinya parish, Kigarama subcounty, during a heavy downpour accompanied by strong winds.
The deceased have been identified as Joseph Musasizi and Ayesigye Griphine, both Primary One pupils.
The critically injured pupils, Clinton Akanyijuka, Innocent Tumuramye and Byamukama Deus, were rushed to Kabwohe Health Centre IV, where they are receiving treatment.
According to eyewitnesses, more than 30 pupils were inside the classroom when strong winds blew off its roof before one of the walls collapsed, burying some of the pupils under the rubble.
"We had a heavy downpour accompanied by strong winds that lasted for about two hours. The winds removed the roof of the classroom and shortly afterwards the wall collapsed, trapping the pupils inside," Tumwesigye said.
Sheema deputy resident district commissioner Sam Orikunda described the incident as unfortunate and extended condolences to the bereaved families.
"This is a very painful incident. We have lost young lives, and our thoughts are with the affected families. We are working with relevant authorities to establish what exactly happened and prevent such incidents in future," Orikunda said.
He also called on district engineers to regularly inspect government buildings, particularly schools and other public facilities, to identify structural weaknesses before they lead to disasters.
"We call upon district engineers to continuously monitor government buildings and provide timely technical advice to schools and other public institutions. Early assessment of structural risks and prompt intervention can help prevent avoidable tragedies and save lives," he said.
Dan Mugizi, the district councillor representing older persons, said security agencies should respond more swiftly during emergencies.
"In such emergencies, quick intervention is needed to control the situation and help the victims," he said.
Saul Mwesigwa, a resident of Runyinya parish, alleged that the classroom block had long been in a dilapidated condition.
"The building was old and in a poor state. We had raised concerns about its condition, and unfortunately this has happened," Mwesigwa said.
The bodies were taken to Kabwohe Health Centre IV mortuary for postmortem examinations.
By press time, police had not yet issued an official statement on the incident.