Swimming exercise ends tragically in Tanzania as six pupils die after getting trapped in mud

What was meant to be an enjoyable swimming experience ended tragically at the weekend when six pupils from Ochuna Primary School in Rorya District, Mara Region, lost their lives in the process.

The six were trapped in mud while swimming in an irrigation pond.

The incident, which occurred on Saturday evening, claimed the lives of the children, including three siblings from Ochuna village. The victims had gone to the pond to swim when they inadvertently ventured into deeper water and became ensnared in the mud.

Rorya District Commissioner Juma Chikoka confirmed the details of the tragic event, noting that of the seven children who had initially entered the pond, one had left before the others became trapped. The remaining six were unable to escape the mud and subsequently drowned.

"All six bodies have been recovered. Burial arrangements are now being coordinated by the district government in the village," said Mr Chikoka.

The community is mourning the loss of these young lives, and the government at district level was working to support the affected families and manage the aftermath of this devastating