Bunagana Primary closed off as Refugees take over school

By Alex Gahima

Authorities in Bunagana town council have decided to close off Bunagana Primary School and convert it into a reception and holding place for Congolese refugees who have been streaming into the district since morning.

Kisoro district Security committee was today morning shocked to learn that Congolese refugees were stranded at Bunagana border following claims of resumed fighting between M23 and Congolese National Forces.

Kisoro district Education Officer Emmanuel Mwunvaneza says, the Muslim owned Primary school was the most secure location to receive the refugees who are still flocking in hordes.

He says all Primary school going children in the school have been asked to stay home until further notice

Mwunvaneza however says the biggest challenge is school furniture is going to be destroyed in order to get firewood to cook and to keep themselves warm at night.

He says the school latrines are likely to get filled up unless relevant authorities find a way of relocating them to Nyakabande Transit Camp.

Bunagana town council Mayor Ismail Ndayambaje says, in the last two hours, more than 1000 people have crossed into Kisoro district via Bunagana.

According to Ndayambaje, it is mostly women and children however men can be seen carrying belongings including Mattresses, suitcases among others.

A source in the Office of the Prime Minister working at the Nyakabande Transit Camp says, it is challenging to sort those refugees who are truly seeking asylum and those who just want to flee danger, monitor the situation from a safe distance and quickly return home.

“The Logistical implication of transporting Congolese refugees from Bunagana to Nyakabande Sub County needs to be weighed wisely”, Source explained

“The Transit camp is operational and our partners are on ground. Uganda welcomes all refugees and none will be turned away”, Source added.

The Office of the Kisoro Resident District Commissioner and other security organs have urged the public to be mindful of their personal security.

They too claim that M23 rebels could have sparked the sporadic movement of the refugees today.

M23 has however not come out to take responsibility.