By Jurugo Emmanuel Ogasto
A widow and mother of six children in Palorinya Refugee Resettlement is appealing for urgent support after unknown thieves allegedly raided her home and stole money meant for her son’s school fees.
The incident occurred at around 8:00 AM on Monday when the woman, identified as Loria Gloria, had gone for a village meeting.
Speaking to No. 1 Citizen Newspaper on the phone, Gloria said the suspected thieves broke into her house during her absence and disappeared with 350,000 Ugandan shillings.
According to Gloria, the stolen money had been kept aside to pay school fees for her last-born son, who is currently studying in primary four this year.
“I had struggled to save the money for my child’s education, but now everything is gone,” Gloria said in distress. “I am calling upon good Samaritans and well-wishers to help me because I do not know where to start from again.”
She added that the matter was immediately reported to the block leaders within the settlement, and efforts are underway to officially report the case to the police for investigation.
When contacted by No. 1 Citizen Newspaper, police could not confirm the incident, saying the matter had not yet been formally reported at the station.
Meanwhile, community members who spoke to No. 1 Citizen Newspaper have appealed to the public to stand with the struggling widow.
Rev. Mandela Nixon described the incident as unfortunate and heartbreaking.
“This woman is already struggling to raise six children alone. Losing school fees in such a manner is very painful,” Rev. Nixon said. “I appeal to humanitarian organisations, churches, and individuals of goodwill to support her so that the child does not miss school.”
Retired teacher Moriku Joyce also sympathised with the victim, saying vulnerable families in refugee settlements deserve protection and support.
“It is not easy for a widow to raise children under these difficult conditions,” Moriku said. “The community should unite and support Gloria because education is important for the future of her children.”
Nyuma Gabriel Vuba equally condemned the theft and urged authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly.
“This act is inhuman because the money was meant for a child’s education,” Vuba said. “I call upon anyone who can help to come forward and support the family during this difficult time.”
Residents in the settlement have expressed concern over rising cases of theft targeting vulnerable families, calling for stronger security measures within the refugee community.