Mubende’s iconic Nakayima tree site has been cordoned off under the directive of Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Al Hajji Umar Lule Mawiya following a tragic incident during an end-of-year celebration.
At least four people were struck dead by a branch that came off the tree at 5am on Wednesday with several others injured in the incident.
The RDC ordered police to block access to the area after the collapse of a tree branch reportedly caused fatalities.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting near the Booma Hills landmark, Mawiya emphasized public safety as the top priority.
“Yesterday’s tragedy claimed lives, and we cannot risk more loss,” he stated.
“Everyone should return home and conduct their prayers in safety.”
Police have taken over the site as disputes over its ownership resurface. A group linked to the Bunyoro Kingdom, the Bunyoro Kitara Reparations Agency (BIKITAREPA), has claimed custodianship of the tree, a matter the RDC urged them to resolve legally.
Mubende District Police Commander Martin Kalekyeezi defended his earlier decision to halt celebrations at the site, citing ignored safety warnings.
“Our experts raised red flags about the venue, but their advice was dismissed,” Kalekyeezi said.
Meanwhile, local worshippers proposed holding future gatherings away from the scene of the collapse.
Among them was Ssalongo Kakalemwa, who claimed to have had a revelatory dream in which Nakayima’s spirit blamed roasted meat for the tragedy.
Municipal Mayor Engineer Innocent Ssekiziivu raised broader safety concerns, pointing out risks from other nearby trees.
He advocated collaboration between Buganda cultural leaders and government officials to ensure the site’s safe reopening.
For now, the sacred Nakayima tree and its surroundings remain under police protection as investigations and consultations continue
