EASTERN PROVINCE

NYAGATARE—Three children died in a grass-thatched house fire and property was destroyed on Wednesday afternoon, in Kaborogota Cell.

Amos Kamali, their nighbor, said at the time of the fire outbreak, at around 3.00 pm, the children’s mother, Doreen Sanyu had gone to fetch water, while the father, Gideon Karasira had gone to look after cattle.

The children identified as Joy Kamatenesi 6, Fred Rwasa 4 and Mary Uwase, 2, were reportedly sleeping in the house at the time of the incident. They helplessly cried out for rescue but in vain, as the house door and windows were closed, Kamali said.

Sources said the fire might have been ignited by fire on which the mother was cooking beans.

Kamali reportedly unsuccessfully tried to put out the fire, but arrived when it had already engulfed the house. "I would have saved these children but the door and windows were locked," he said.

"I left the house locked thinking that I would return shortly," said the grief-stricken mother, sobbing profusely.

With tears rolling down the cheeks, the father lamented, "I would have lost all my properties but remain with my children."

By press time there was no police statement about the incident.

Ends