Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu
FALCON College is in mourning after a Form One pupil drowned when a canoe he was using capsized at a dam within the school premises on Sunday.
Jared Boka, (13), had gone fishing at the dam in the company of a 12-year-old friend before the two decided to take a canoe onto the water.
In a statement, the school extended its condolences to the bereaved family.
“The headmaster, board of governors, staff, students, and the wider Falcon College family extend our heartfelt condolences to the Boka family on the tragic loss of Jared.
“May his memory be a source of comfort and strength during this incredibly difficult time. May he rest in peace.”
Matabeleland South provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Chiratidzo Dube, confirmed the incident, which occurred at Quiet Waters Dam.
“Whilst at the dam, Jared and his friend took a canoe and went into the dam. The canoe capsized and Jared drowned.
“His friend managed to swim to the shore and alerted authorities.
“The body was retrieved and taken to Esigodini District Hospital mortuary. Investigations are underway.”
Scores of Zimbabweans, including music star Willis Watafi, have joined the school in mourning Jared.
Here are some of their messages:
My deepest sympathies. – Willis Wataffi
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Jared my Grade 7 student may your soul rest in peace. I will miss you, memories will never fade. Mr and Mrs Boka my condolences. — Rumbidzai Audry Chada
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May the Boka family and the Falcon community find strength in the memories of Jared’s life, and may his legacy continue to inspire us all. Condolences to all who knew him. – Jj Mthandazo Mtupa
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Haaa zvakaoma Mwari Isai ziso renyu panofamba vana vedu zvinorwadza izvi nematambudziko. – Lista Chimuchembere
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Sad indeed and a difficult time for his family and the whole Falcon College community. May the young soul rest in eternal peace. – Joseph Muzenda
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So sad. May the Holy Spirit, our comforter descend upon the Boka and Falcon family. Find solace in knowing that someone, somewhere is praying for you asking the Lord to carry you through. – Thuli Nyoni
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How heart-breaking. Rest in Peace. May your beloved ones stay comforted in the Lord. My sincere condolences. – Qakisiwe Hazel Dube
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My heart goes out to the Boka family during this incredibly difficult time. – Sandra McLean
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My heartfelt deepest sympathy are with Jareds family, friends and the entire Falcon College community during this difficult sad time. – Lucinda Hughes
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Mwari Mwari Mwari, no parent should live to bury their child Mwari! – Tetts Trish Tahkayz
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Sending the Boka family and Falcon community condolences and prayers at this difficult time.- Dulcie MJ Querl
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My sincere condolences to his family, friends and Falcon family. – Petronella Muchaziwepi
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Absolutely heart-breaking. Prayers and strength to his family, friends and the whole Falcon community. – Jenna Ashley Armand
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This is heartbreaking. May his soul rest in peace and may the Lord comfort his family during this difficult time. – Belinda Rupapa
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Heartfelt condolences to the Boka and Falcon families, may you find comfort in the Lord during this difficult time. – Memory Chinocheka
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Our sincere condolences to the Boka family at this devastating time, sending love, strength and prayers to you all. – Kelly Stanley
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Deepest sympathy to the parents, family and the entire Falcon College Community. So, so sad. – Sibo Cheds Magg
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Our hearts and love go out to all his family and loved ones. . . forever missed but never forgotten. Fly high young man. – Nicki Roberts
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Quite a sad development. May his soul rest in peace. May the good Lord console his family. – Abby Mukumbuzi
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Condolences to the Boka Family. Prayers, strength and comfort is wished for you. – Lauren Anne Lecluse
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Deepest sympathy to the Boka family and the Falcon community on this tragic loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. – Healing with Horses Zimbabwe
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We are absolutely heartbroken such a tragedy. Our deepest condolences to the Boka family and the entire Falcon community. Praying for comfort and strength during this difficult time. – Lindsy Nel
Mathew Masinge