MAF has been a small light of hope during the tragic loss of over 20 school children in a fatal crash that paralysed the nation of Uganda.
In eastern Uganda’s Kapchorwa district, pupils from King David Primary School of Ndejje-Wakiso were enjoying a study tour away from their home in the nation’s capital, Kampala. Tragically, their bus went out of control and fell into a ditch, leading to the deaths of over 20 children, the bus driver and the school director.
Among the young lives lost was Judith Namanda, a vibrant 12-year-old girl from Yambio in South Sudan. Due to lack of good education facilities, it is not uncommon for South Sudan nationals to seek education for their children in neighbouring countries.
MAF pilots Rembrand Rodenburg and Niels Blok felt extremely privileged to reduce the stress and the burden involved in repatriating Judith’s body to South Sudan for burial.
“It was such an honour for us to fly the girl’s body and her family back to Yambio,” Niels said. “And we pray God’s love and comfort over them, and all the other families that lost their loved ones in that accident.”
A road trip from Uganda to South Sudan can take two whole days, and if the journey involves the movement of a casket, the duration and complications only increase.
Even in her grieving, Judith’s mother Joice Enosa shared her gratitude for the flight.
“My heart is filled with gratitude towards MAF for helping me,” Joice said. “Thank you is not enough for the service you offered me. I’ve been travelling with MAF for a long time, but what MAF has done for me this time, only God can bless you.”
The MAF flight was able to repatriate Judith’s body and her family back to Yambio in only three hours.
One week later, MAF pilot Ryan Unger was in Yambio to fly Joice back to Uganda to take care of her other children that were involved in the fatal crash.
“You can imagine the grief they are experiencing right now, and yet to deal with that and not have the means or ability to go back to the family, you can imagine how that would be,” said Ryan. “I’m very grateful that we could help out this grieving family during this very difficult time.”
Two of Joice’s children are currently receiving treatment in Uganda.
“I had three children on the bus, and my other child has undergone surgery in Uganda,” she said. “She sustained broken legs. My son was also on the bus but sustained minor injuries.”
This tragedy was not far from the MAF family in Uganda. IT officer Bridget Damba also had two children on the fateful school trip.
“When I looked at that wreckage, I could hardly believe anyone came out alive,” Bridget said. “I am very grateful for the support from our partner CURE Children’s Hospital of Uganda and their willingness to see my child’s medical scan report and offer professional advice.
“The timely call from our Country Director Sam Baguma and the staff members were so helpful. I am very proud to be part of this organisation.”
One of Bridget’s children sustained injuries that led to surgery but is recovering very well, for which the team at MAF in Uganda are grateful.
Joice’s family friend Mborihenga Ignatius shared words of gratitude with Micheni Ruriani, Operations Manager for MAF in Uganda.
“We are heart broken and weary from this loss yet deeply consoled by the compassion and professionalism you showed,” Mborihenga said. “Your understanding, your willingness to stand with us, and your skillful handling of international and logistical details have been a true demonstration of goodness and exemplary professionalism.”
STORY & PHOTOS / DAMALIE HIRWA