Four boys who drowned in Linengwe River in Ntcheu on Tuesday were laid to rest on Wednesday at Mlambwadza Village in the area of Sub Traditional Authority Mkutumula in the district.
The deceased: George Zakeyu, Thomas Sozoliyo (both aged 10), Mark Evans, 9 and 7-year-old Mark Sozoliyo who were all standard two learners at Mapondera Primary School in the area, drowned in the course of playing in the river.
Speaking on behalf of the bereaved families, Jay Kamvazakazi said they are saddened with the tragic death of their children and extended calls for parents to closely monitor movements of their children to avoid a similar incident.
Chikande Zone Primary Education Advisor Patrick Chiwaya said they were saddened as they have lost promising learners who were doing well in their studies.
Chiwaya further urged teachers, parents and guardians to work together in advising children to refrain from playing around water bodies to avoid a similar incident as the country is in the rainy season.
Village Headman Mlambwadza said traditional leaders will enhance sensitisation on parental care and guidance to ensure that parents take full responsibility of their children’s safety.
