The Liberian community in Rwanda is mourning the tragic death of Celia Ida Boway, a final year accounting student at the University of Lay Adventists of Kigali (UNILAK), who succumbed to injuries sustained in a domestic gas explosion.
Boway, described by friends as diligent and ambitious, suffered severe burns after a gas stove ignited while she was cooking. The incident occurred in Huye District, and she was rushed to the University Teaching Hospital of Butare (CHUB), where she remained under intensive care for two months. Despite medical intervention, her condition deteriorated, and she passed away on February 15, 2026.
Her death has sent shockwaves through the Liberian diaspora in Rwanda, sparking renewed debate over household safety and the growing reliance on gas stoves under Rwanda’s clean-cooking policy. The initiative, designed to reduce dependence on charcoal and firewood, has been widely praised for its environmental benefits but has also raised concerns about safety awareness and training.
Community leaders expressed grief and called for urgent measures to prevent similar tragedies. “This is a painful loss not only for her family but for all of us,” said a spokesperson for the Liberian Association in Rwanda. “We urge authorities and residents to prioritize safety education as gas use becomes more common.”
Experts note that while gas stoves are generally safe when properly maintained, accidents often stem from faulty equipment, poor ventilation, or lack of user training. Boway’s case highlights the need for stricter enforcement of safety standards and public awareness campaigns.
Students at UNILAK held a candlelight vigil in her honor, remembering her as a dedicated scholar with aspirations to contribute to Liberia’s financial sector. “She was an inspiration to many of us,” said fellow student Grace Johnson. “Her passing is heartbreaking.”
As the Liberian community grieves, Boway’s death underscores the broader challenge of balancing modern energy policies with household safety. Advocates are calling for collaborative efforts between government agencies, universities, and community groups to ensure that tragedies like this do not recur.
