A Community Mourns and Demands Action
A 12 year old student from Madera Boys Primary School in Soroti City East has been laid to rest following a tragic accident involving a collapsed pit latrine. John Paul Ekaru, a Primary Three pupil, fell into the pit latrine on Saturday, July 27, 2024, when the slab beneath him gave way.
The latrine, which had previously been condemned, was still in use and posed a danger to students. Ekaru’s death occurred instantly as he fell into the four-stance latrine, a situation that has now sparked significant concern and mourning within the community.
John Paul Ekaru was the eldest of three children born to Jessica Asibo and Vincent Epilu, residents of Madera Ward Asinge Cell. His burial took place in Asinge Ward, Madera Ward, on July 31, 2024, in a ceremony marked by deep sadness. Mourners gathered to pay their respects as the casket containing Ekaru’s remains arrived at 11:20 am.
Rev. Fr. Ipuralei Ochom conducted the mass, offering words of comfort and urging the community to find solace in their faith. He emphasized the inevitability of death and the importance of leading righteous lives.
Francis Etengu, the LC1 chairperson, used the occasion to call on Madera Boys Primary School to consider providing educational support for one of Ekaru’s siblings. Soroti City Mayor Joshua Edogu attended the funeral and highlighted ongoing mediation efforts between the school and Ekaru’s family. He also urged calm as the situation is addressed.
Moses Okia Attan, former Member of Parliament for Soroti East, echoed the call for new latrines, stressing the need for improved facilities at the school. Francis Abwaimo, a teacher at the school, acknowledged the poor state of the existing latrines. He noted that while students use newer latrines during the day, they often resort to the old ones at night due to their proximity to the dormitory.
Simon Opolot, Soroti City Inspector of Schools, reported that an initial review had revealed a shortage of pit latrines at the school. Funds have been allocated, and construction for a new four-stance latrine has begun. The school’s pupils have requested the immediate demolition of all condemned latrines to prevent future incidents.
John Paul Ekaru was laid to rest at his family’s ancestral home in Asinge Cell, Madera Ward, a short distance from the school where the tragedy occurred. The community continues to grieve and call for necessary changes to ensure the safety of all students.
