At least four people have been killed and several others injured after a branch of the famous Nakayima tree in Mubende Municipality them during an early-morning ritual.
The revered tree, situated on Booma Hill, is a cultural landmark where people gather for traditional ceremonies and thanksgiving rituals.
The accident occurred at around 5am during preparations for an annual end-of-year celebration attended by more than 200 people.
A branch of the tree suddenly broke off, killing three people on the spot and injuring seven others.
A fouth person succumbed to injuries at Mubende Regional Referral Hospital, Police confirmed.
Deputy RDC for Mubende, Abubaker Birungi, announced a temporary closure of the site following the tragedy.
“In Buganda, it is customary to suspend all programs when a death occurs. Therefore, tomorrow’s feast is canceled,” he stated. Birungi also called on local leaders to ensure the safety of the victims’ property left at the site.
Locals speculate that the accident may be linked to a violation of the tree’s cultural norms, which they believe hold spiritual significance.
James Wabuli, a tour guide at the site, explained that rituals were conducted as part of the preparations.
“Attendees began arriving last night, as the main function was scheduled for December 5. Many slept under the tree after the rituals, but at around 5:00 AM, a branch fell, causing this tragic loss,” Wabuli said.
Racheal Kawala, the Wamala Region Police spokesperson, confirmed that the territorial police in Mubende had opened a death inquiry file.
She provided details of the victims and preliminary findings, which attribute the accident to a dry branch falling from the tree.
The deceased have been identified as Anet Nakabuye, 45, a businesswoman from Masaka; Evelyn Twebaze, 39, from Bukomansimbi District; and an unidentified individual.
The injured include:
Rose Namatovu, 48, from Gomba District.
Victoria Nalubiri, 13, a pupil from Mubende.
Teddy Nanono, 37, from Mubende.
Mariah Nabukera, 46, from Masaka.
Josephine Namatovu, 35, from Sembabule District.
Caroline Natukunda, 35, from Kampala.
Ronald Kimbugwe Reagan, 13, a pupil from Sembabule District.
Victims were rushed to Mubende Regional Referral Hospital for treatment, while the deceased were transported for postmortem examinations.
The Nakayima tree, steeped in cultural and spiritual significance, has long been a site for pilgrimages and rituals.
However, this incident raises concerns about safety during such large gatherings. Authorities and cultural leaders are expected to engage in discussions on how to prevent similar tragedies while preserving the cultural importance of the site.
