Two promising football players, also students of Bishop Stuart University, met their untimely demise Sunday morning in a tragic accident along the treacherous Mbarara-Lyantode road.
The young souls lost in the accident have been identified as Asuman Kilabala, affectionately known as Kibazo, a talented player from Potts Football Club hailing from Kabwohe, Sheema district, and Ashiru Agaba, a skilled athlete representing Kahonda Football Club and a native of Kanyampumo in Kajara.
Both Asuman and Ashiru were active participants in the fiercely competitive Kitunga League, a football tournament initiated by the alumni of Muntuyera High School Kitunga, located in Ntungamo district.
The tragic collision, which unfolded early Sunday morning at the Akyapa stretch along the Mbarara-Lyantonde road, involved two vehicles. A silver Toyota Spacio with registration number UBC 554D, driven by an as yet unidentified individual, veered off course, crossing lanes due to excessive speed, resulting in a catastrophic collision with a white Tata lorry bearing registration number UBH 961W, driven by Gessa Abaala Abdala, a 41-year-old resident of Gaba Bukunja in Buikwe District.
Eyewitness Marvin Orishaba recounted the harrowing moments, indicating that the Toyota Spacio was recklessly speeding, especially around corners, ultimately leading to the fatal collision with the oncoming Tata lorry.
Tragically, both occupants of the Toyota Spacio lost their lives at the scene of the accident, leaving behind a void in the hearts of their loved ones. Two other passengers in the vehicle managed to survive the crash but sustained severe injuries.
Speaking on behalf of the Kitunga League, Davies Mishare expressed deep sorrow, revealing that the two talented players were slated to participate in today’s highly anticipated matches between Potts FC and Kyasha FC, and Kahonda FC against Omuti FC.
In light of this devastating loss, all scheduled games for the day have been postponed as a mark of respect and to allow for the dignified burial of Asuman and Ashiru.
Samson Kasasira, the Rwizi Region police spokesperson, confirmed that the bodies have been transferred to Kasambya mortuary in Lyantonde District for postmortem examinations. Meanwhile, the injured survivors are receiving urgent medical attention at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, thanks to the swift intervention of Good Samaritans at the scene.
Efforts to formally identify the victims are currently underway, as authorities work diligently to provide closure to grieving families and the tight-knit football community. The involved vehicles have been securely towed and are presently stationed at Sanga Police Station, awaiting thorough examination by the Inspector of Vehicles.
This devastating accident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact of such tragic events on families, friends, and communities. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of Asuman Kilabala and Ashiru Agaba during this incredibly challenging time. May their souls rest in eternal peace.
