Samia mourns health workers drowned

KIGOMA: PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan has conveyed her heartfelt condolences to the Kigoma Regional Commissioner, retired Inspector General of Police Simon Sirro, following the tragic deaths of seven health workers in Kigoma District Council.

The health professionals drowned yesterday after the boat they were travelling in capsized on Lake Tanganyika while heading to Kagunga Village to conduct a vaccination exercise.

Reports indicate that strong winds on the lake created heavy waves, causing the vessel to overturn. In her message shared on social media, President Samia expressed deep sorrow upon receiving news of the tragic accident.

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“Let us come together in prayer to Almighty God to grant eternal rest to those who have lost their lives, a swift recovery to the injured who are receiving treatment, and strength and patience to all those affected by this tragic accident,” she said.

According to Kigoma Regional Fire and Rescue Commander, Michael Maganga, the incident occurred around 8:00 am near Kalalangabo Village in Kigoma Ujiji Municipality.

Seven bodies have been recovered, while three people are still missing. Nine other passengers were rescued and are receiving treatment at Maweni Regional Referral Hospital.

An eyewitness, Hamisi Mohamed, who helped in the rescue, said they had just finished prayers and were sitting outside the veranda of a nearby mosque when they noticed the boat being pushed by strong winds.

He said they quickly took nearby canoes and rushed about 40 metres into the lake to rescue those on board. Rescue teams continue efforts to locate the three missing individuals.