Tragedy in Rutsiro: 16-Year-Old Girl Drowns in Lake Kivu

In a heartbreaking incident, a 16-year-old girl, Uwimbabazi Sandrine, lost her life after drowning in Lake Kivu on April 26, 2025.

The accident occurred in the Gitwa Village, located within Gabiro Cell, Musasa Sector, Rutsiro District. According to local authorities, Uwimbabazi had visited some classmates from G.S. Murama before the tragedy struck.

Bisengimana Janvier, the Executive Secretary of Musasa Sector, confirmed the incident, stating that Uwimbabazi and her friends decided to go swimming in Lake Kivu. Unfortunately, while in the water, she began to struggle and quickly drowned.

“Her companions called for help immediately,” Bisengimana reported. “A passerby from a nearby hill rushed to assist and managed to retrieve her from the water, but sadly, she had already succumbed.”

Local authorities have since reiterated the importance of water safety, urging residents to use appropriate swimming gear when entering large water bodies. Bisengimana further emphasized that even individuals who are skilled swimmers can encounter unforeseen difficulties in unpredictable environments like Lake Kivu.

Following the recovery, Uwimbabazi’s body was transported to Murunda Hospital for a medical examination before arrangements for her burial were made.

The tragedy has left the local community in mourning, with many calling for enhanced safety measures and increased awareness campaigns around swimming activities, especially for young people.