AMUGU TOWN COUNCIL – The community of Aminaweka cell in Acek ward is in mourning following the tragic death of three-year-old Jesthro Bwonyo, who passed away last week after an accident at his school. The young boy was buried yesterday, leaving family, friends, and local leaders demanding answers and stricter safety measures.
Jesthro, born on April 16, 2023, was a baby class pupil at Otoirio Nursery and Primary School. According to reports, the accident occurred on Friday, March 6, 2026, when he fell into a saucepan containing hot food. He was just three weeks into his first school term.
Following the accident, the toddler was rushed to Alanyi Health Centre IV for initial care before being referred to Lira Peace Centre (LPC) Hospital in Lira city. Despite receiving medical attention, Jesthro was pronounced dead in the early morning of March 14, 2026.
He is survived by his parents, Mr. Tobias Bwonyo and Ms. Oliver Apio, who laid their young son to rest on Saturday.
The heartbreaking incident has prompted strong reactions from local government and education officials who attended the burial. Speakers directed their remarks at the school’s safety protocols, calling for accountability and systemic change to prevent future tragedies.
Isaac Okwir, representing the Alebtong Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), announced that the district school inspector will begin a comprehensive monitoring exercise across all schools in Alebtong. The inspection aims to ensure that every institution has the necessary safety measures in place to protect pupils.
“The school inspector will start to monitor all schools in Alebtong to ascertain whether they have everything needed for the safety of pupils,” Okwir stated, signaling a move toward stricter enforcement of safety standards.
Daniel Otim Olipa, the mayor of Aloi Town Council, was more critical in his assessment, placing the blame squarely on the school’s negligence.
“The ignorance of the school led to the death of the child,” Mayor Olipa said, echoing the grief and anger felt by many in the community who believe the accident was preventable.
Adding a personal plea was James Ogwal Aluku, a former teacher and the child’s grandfather. Speaking through his own pain, he urged educators to be more vigilant and prioritize the welfare of the children entrusted to their care.
“Teachers must take good care of the children at school,” Mr. Aluku implored, turning personal tragedy into a call for greater responsibility.
As the community of Amugu Town Council begins to heal, the death of young Jesthro Bwonyo serves as a somber reminder of the importance of child safety, with local leaders now pushing for immediate action to ensure such a tragedy is never repeated.
