Attack on secondary school in Uganda claims 41 lives

During the attack, students were targeted indiscriminately. As of the latest reports, the confirmed number of casualties stands at 41 while 6 students have been abducted. Many students are injured and currently receiving medical treatment at local hospitals.

Additional security measures have been implemented across the area to ensure the safety of other educational institutions and to prevent further incidents.

The government of Uganda has condemned the act of violence in the strongest terms and vowed to bring the culprits to justice. President Yoweri Museveni expressed deep grief over the loss of innocent lives and extended condolences to the affected families. He also declared a national period of mourning, urging citizens to unite against such acts of violence and to support the grieving families.

The First Lady Janet Museveni, who also acts as the Education Minister, said in a Twitter statement that the government was ‘providing support for the bereaved families during this trying time.’

‘On behalf of the Ugandan Government, the Ministry of Education and Sports, and myself, I extend heartfelt condolences to the families, students, staff of Lhubiliriha Secondary School, and the broader community affected by this tragedy,’ she added.

Today, our nation mourns the devastating terrorist attack on Mpondwe Lhubiliriha Secondary School in Kasese District near the DRC border, claiming the lives of 37 children, with another five hospitalized. Initially, 25 deaths were reported, but the count tragically increased.… pic.twitter.com/F4qXVPXxf1

— Janet K Museveni (@JanetMuseveni) June 17, 2023

Various organizations and community members have come forward to offer their condolences, assistance, and support to the affected families and the school community. The tragedy has ignited discussions about the importance of education and the urgent need for enhanced security measures across the nation’s schools.

Through a press release the UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said, ‘UNICEF calls for the immediate release and safe return of all those who have been kidnapped, and extends its sincere condolences to the loved ones of the victims and to the nation, as it grapples with this senseless violence.’

This devastating attack on school children serves as a grim reminder of the vulnerability of educational institutions and the need for collective efforts to safeguard the well-being of students.