KARONGI- Mourners who perished in a boat accident exactly one year ago at start of the 16th commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, will be honoured this month.

More than 20 people died when their boat capsized on their way to Nyamunini Island in Rutsiro District to join other mourners in memory of the victims who were killed and dumped into the lake in 1994.

50 miraculously survived
District Mayor, Gaspard Byukusenge, told Sunday Times, yesterday, that a special arrangement was underway to pay tribute to victims of the tragedy and helping their families.

"It is in plan to pay special tribute to those who died without forgetting their families, especially during such periods which spark off sad memories,” Byukusenge said.

He explained that as a way of strengthening the bereaved families, each household has been given an exotic cow to help improve their way of living.
 
"They are our heroes who attempted to join hands in remembrance of victims of the '94 Genocide but never made it. Our condolences are always with them," Byukusenge added
 
He revealed that a cooperative society has been created amongst the bereaved families. It is expected to help in improving the families’ economic and social wellbeing.

Among those who died were top district officials, including Felicien Nsigaye, the then district's Finance Director, Jean Marie Vianney Bitwarimana (Procurement Officer) and Alex Niyibizi, the deputy Director of Education.
 
Others include four policemen and local leaders such as Andrea Nambajimana, the Executive Secretary of Bugina Cell.
 
Investigations attributed the accident to overloading and negligence by the coxswain of the ill-fated boat.
 
"There are suspicions that the coxswain was drunk and that his boat was not in good working conditions,” police said.
 
It is alleged that passengers warned the coxswain identified as Protais Munyeshaka, not to overload but he deliberately refused. He is currently undergoing trial.

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