Lightning Strike Claims Young Footballer's Life in Mpigi

Tragedy struck in Buwama Town Council, Mpigi District, on Saturday evening when a football match turned fatal. Andrew Makubuya, a 23-year-old player, was killed instantly by a lightning bolt while participating in a tournament.

The tournament, organized by Mitala Maria Parish as part of preparations for their upcoming Youth Day, was taking place at a football pitch in Bbongole Ward when the incident occurred. Makubuya, a former captain of the St. Balikuddembe SS, Mitala Maria football team, was among two players struck by the lightning.

While Makubuya succumbed to his injuries at the scene, the other player sustained injuries and was transported to Gombe Hospital for urgent medical attention. Police have visited the scene, and Makubuya’s body has been taken to the Gombe Hospital mortuary for a postmortem examination.

The coordinator of the tournament, Ronald Kalebu, expressed shock and sorrow over the unforeseen event, calling it a deeply sad moment for the players and the Catholic community. The coach of Makubuya’s team also shared his grief, describing the experience as both frightening and painful for the team.

In light of the tragedy, Buwama Town Council Mayor Abdul Rashid Nkinga has appealed to residents to exercise extreme caution during thunderstorms, advising against outdoor activities when lightning is present.

Consequently, the planned Youth Day celebrations for Mitala Maria Parish, originally scheduled for September 20, have been canceled. Rev. Fr. Nicholas Mukwaya, the parish’s youth chaplain, confirmed the cancellation, stating that the community is now in mourning.

Source: https://www.monitor.ug/uganda/news/national/lightning-kills-footballer-in-mpigi-during-youth-day-preparatory-tournament-5593268