Five Killed, Three Injured as Lightning Strikes Ntungamo Village
Ntungamo District is mourning the loss of five residents after a lightning strike hit Rwakashanga Cell in Rwahi–Rwentobo Town Council, Rushenyi County, on Tuesday evening.
The incident occurred at around 4:30 p.m. on August 19, 2025, as heavy rain swept across the area.
According to police, eight people who had been harvesting and sorting onions nearby rushed to shelter under the veranda of a closed house when they were struck by a single bolt of lightning.
Rwizi Regional Police spokesperson, Samson Kasasira, confirmed the tragedy.
The deceased identified as, Edgar Taremwa (38), Jackline Nduhukire (44), Alexander Mwaka (25), Pop Kwigira (24), and an elderly man, Hassan Tekayote, from Ruhaama.
“Five people died instantly, while three others survived with critical injuries. One of them, only identified as Cevas, is receiving treatment alongside the others,” Kasasira said.
Police noted that one body remains unidentified and has been taken to Itojo Hospital mortuary for postmortem examination and formal identification.
The deaths have left the local community reeling. Residents described the lightning strike as the third fatal incident in the area in recent years, renewing calls for government intervention.
Local leaders are appealing for the urgent installation of lightning arresters in schools, churches, and community centres to help prevent future disasters.
