Clare
The body of the late Gilbert Kanyamatonwa a Munekera by Clan aged 27, has finally been laid to rest at his home in Ibonde, Karago Town Council, Fort Portal City, amid the heartfelt wails and sobs of hundreds of mourners.
On the fateful evening of Friday, October 11, a tragic car accident on the Kagadi-Hoima Road claimed the lives of Gilbert Kanyamatonwa and Hillary Musinguzi, while others, including Rev. Fr. Tonny Katungi Byoma, Nyakahuma Barnabas and two others sustained serious injuries as they traveled to a family introduction ceremony in Lira.
Mourners Urged to Find Solace in Christ
The requiem Mass, officiated by Rt. Rev. Dr. Robert Muhiirwa Akiiki, Bishop of Fort Portal Diocese and the paternal uncle of the deceased, served as a poignant reflection on loss and hope. The Bishop urged mourners to place their trust in God during this trying time, reminding them that God himself faced death and offered the promise of eternal life through his resurrection.
He reffered to the words of St. Augustine: “Our hearts are restless unless they find rest in God,” to provide solace to those in mourning of the young Kanyamatonwa. The Bishop also called for forgiveness among both families affected by this tragedy and encouraged the congregation to pray earnestly for the healing of the survivors.
Observing Traffick Rules
His Lordship Muhiirwa further emphasized the necessity of observing traffic regulations to combat the alarming rise in accidents throughout Uganda.
Mr. Patrick Siisa, head of the Abanekera Clan, lamented the escalating number of accidents, attributing them to improper vehicle use, poor road network, and corrupt traffic officials who permit violations. He urged leaders to prioritize the rule of traffic laws and improvements to the road network over mere promises to the community.
Rev. Fr. Tonny Katungi Byoma, a survivor and brother of the deceased, expressed gratitude to the many who gathered to honor Gilbert’s memory, acknowledging the moral and spiritual support from the Mabira and Kagadi priests, as well as the entire Christian community during this difficult time.
Born in 1996, Kanyamatonwa was an accomplished engineer who studied at Nyakasura Primary School, Buryansungwe Secondary School, and St. Joseph’s Technical Kinyamasika. He is survived by a widow and two young orphans.
He has been described by family and friends as a trustworthy, loving, and hardworking individual, whose presence will be sorely missed. May his soul rest in peace. Amen.
