News Desk
KAMPALA: In a tragic incident in northern Uganda, at least 14 people, including several children, lost their lives when lightning struck a makeshift church in the Palabek refugee camp. The incident occurred on Saturday evening as a severe storm swept through the area, forcing around 50 people, primarily refugees from the Nuer community of South Sudan, to seek shelter inside the church.
According to local officials, the lightning strike hit the church’s metal roof, resulting in the deaths of five girls and nine boys, all aged between 14 and 18. William Komech, the resident district commissioner for the Lamwo region, confirmed the fatalities and reported that several others were injured and are receiving treatment at local health centers.
Hillary Onek, Uganda’s minister for refugees and disaster preparedness, stated that the government is working alongside the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other agencies to provide assistance to the survivors. He emphasized that a government team is on the ground to help deliver the deceased’s bodies to their families, ensuring that they receive the necessary support during this devastating time. This incident highlights the risks posed by severe weather in the region, as Uganda has seen several lightning-related fatalities in recent years.
