Mourners gathered in Habomi Village, Masaba Sub-county, Busia District, on Thursday to bid farewell to Amos Wandera and Trevor Shawn Wandera, aged 8 and 11, respectively. The two, along with 10-year-old Timothy Oguttu, residents of Alupe Village, drowned on Christmas Day in a ball pit owned by Wagagai Mining Uganda Limited in Amagoro Village, Buteba Sub-county.
The trio had left their grandfather’s home, where they were spending the festive season, and ventured to the ball pit to play without anyone’s knowledge. Despite efforts to rescue them, the tragic incident claimed their lives.
The burial took place in separate locations, with Shawn and Amos laid to rest in Habomi Village and Oguttu in Buyimini Village. At the burial, Mr. Amos Okitwi, the Amagoro Village LC1 chairperson, revealed that Wagagai Mining Uganda Limited extended support to the grieving families and continues to provide assistance.
In an official statement, Wagagai Mining Uganda Ltd expressed deep regret over the incident, acknowledging the drowning of the three children. The company emphasized its commitment to working closely with the affected families, offering support to ease the painful moment. The statement urged the community to discourage children from swimming in the ball pit and highlighted increased safety measures to prevent future incidents.
Mr. Derrick Rukare, the Corporation Secretary, clarified that the company covered the burial expenses and provided support to the grieving families. Ivan Dennis Wandera, the father of Shawn and Amos, confirmed that officials from Wagagai Mining Uganda Limited expressed regret and provided financial assistance, including covering all burial expenses.
Despite calls for compensation, Mr. Okitwi emphasized that what is being offered is support, as no amount of money can adequately compensate for the loss of three lives. Rev Jackson Oguttu, the Masaba Parish Priest, urged parents to exercise extra caution with their children during the extended holidays.
