By Dionne Meehan
Matt Sibanda, a teenager who died in a drowning incident in Buncrana earlier in the month, will be laid to rest on Saturday.
Matt (18) and his friend Emmanuel Familola (16) lost their lives after getting into difficulty in the water at Ned’s Point on Saturday, May 10.
Matt, originally from Zimbabwe, was a senior student at Crana College while Emmanuel, who was from Nigeria, was a Transition Year student in Scoil Mhuire, Buncrana.
They were both residents at different International Protection Applicants (IPAS) Centres in the town.
Matt’s requiem Mass will take place in St Mary’s Oratory, St Mary’s Road, Buncrana at 9.30am on Saturday, May 31.
After Mass, burial will take place in Cockhill Cemetery.
A spokesperson from the African Caribbean Community Network said: “It is with deep sorrow that we share the heart-breaking news of the passing of our beloved young brother, Matt Sibanda, one of the boys who tragically drowned in Buncrana.
“As we come to terms with this immense loss, we are reminded of the strength and support that binds our community together.
“We kindly ask all members of the African Caribbean Community Network to avail themselves for Matt’s funeral this Saturday.
“Let us stand in unity, love, and compassion as we lay him to rest and show our unwavering support to the Sibanda family during this incredibly difficult time.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
“May they find comfort in our collective presence and strength in the love that surrounds them.
“Matt’s memory will forever live on in our hearts.
“Let us come together in honour, in grief, and in hope.”
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