10-Year-Old Boy Drowns at Kwena Dam near Lydenburg
By: Staff Reporter
A weekend family outing ended in tragedy when a 10-year-old boy recently drowned at Kwena Dam near Lydenburg (Mashishing).According to police reports, the boy, identified as Moeketsi Baadjie, was spending the day fishing with his family when the incident occurred. While the children were playing close to the water, the boy’s mother reportedly heard panicked screams.
His father managed to rescue one of the children, but Moeketsi disappeared beneath the surface.Members of the SAPS Diving Unit from Lydenburg and White River were dispatched to the scene and recovered the child’s body. Paramedics declared him dead at the scene.Police spokesperson Colonel Jabu Ndubane cited that as the festive season approaches, the public should remain vigilant and supervise children closely when near bodies of water. “We urge families to exercise extreme caution when visiting dams or rivers, particularly with children. Water, we also request that they should refrain from from drinking alcohol when visiting rivers and dams” Mohlala said.Mpumalanga Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Zeph Mkhwanazi, extended condolences to the bereaved Baadjie family and praised the swift efforts of the rescue teams.Kwena Dam, located near Lydenburg is a popular recreational spot for fishing, picnics, and family gatherings.
However, locals have raised concerns about safety at the dam, noting that there are few warning signs and no designated swimming areas.According to the South African Drowning Prevention Council, drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental deaths among children under the age of 14 in the country. Experts urge constant adult supervision near water and the importance of teaching children basic water safety and swimming skills.
As the Lydenburg community mourns the loss of young Moeketsi, the tragedy serves as a painful reminder of how quickly joy can turn to grief near open water.Safety Tips for Families Visiting Dams and RiversAlways supervise children closely near water.Avoid swimming or playing near deep or unmonitored sections.Wear life jackets when fishing or boating.Be cautious of sudden drop-offs and slippery rocks.Keep emergency numbers and flotation devices nearby.
