Uganda—and the wider East African region—was plunged into repeated mourning over the course of the year as prominent politicians, creatives, professionals, and public figures lost their lives. The deaths occurred under varying circumstances, ranging from prolonged illness and sudden medical emergencies to accidents and violent crime.
Here is a look back at some of the notable figures we lost this year and the legacies they leave behind.
Muhammad Ssegirinya
The year opened with sorrow following the death of Muhammad Ssegirinya, the sitting Member of Parliament for Kawempe North.
Ssegirinya passed away in January after a prolonged illness that had seen him hospitalized multiple times both locally and abroad. His death marked the loss of a vocal, controversial, and grassroots-driven legislator whose political career was characterized by populist activism and memorable public utterances.
Martha Murari Ahumuza
In March, tragedy struck Kampala’s hospitality and nightlife industry with the death of Martha Murari Ahumuza, who collapsed at Mezo Noir Bar and Restaurant.
Initial reports sparked widespread public debate and police investigations over suspected poisoning. However, later medical findings pointed to internal brain bleeding. Her sudden death shocked Kampala’s social and business circles and continued to stir conversation even after her burial.
Saad Shots
The creative industry was shaken in April by the death of renowned photographer and videographer Saad Shots.
He died in a motorcycle accident along the Entebbe Expressway, prompting an outpouring of tributes from artists, visual storytellers, and media personalities who credited him for shaping modern Ugandan visual storytelling.
Sam Omara
In April, the nation mourned Afande Sam Omara, a retired Assistant Commissioner of Police.
Omara passed away after a long illness. He was widely known for his outspoken media appearances, his long-standing policing of retired Colonel Dr. Kizza Besigye, and decades of service in the Uganda Police Force.
Rajiv Ruparelia
In May, Uganda was stunned by the death of Rajiv Ruparelia, the Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group.
The 35-year-old businessman died in a high-speed car crash on the Kampala–Entebbe Expressway after his luxury vehicle hit a barrier and burst into flames. He is remembered for his humanitarian work and the numerous development projects he supported across the country.
Cedric Babu Ndilima
At the end of May, Uganda lost Cedric Babu Ndilima, a celebrated media personality, sports administrator, and former tennis champion.
He collapsed while attending a tennis tournament in Rwanda where one of his children was participating. He was later airlifted to Nairobi, where he died from heart failure complications after unsuccessful efforts to secure a heart transplant.
Cedric Babu was the son of former Kampala Central MP Francis Babu and East African Legislative Assembly Speaker Margaret Zziwa.
DJ Bush Baby
Veteran DJ and media personality Bush Baby was found dead in his Entebbe studio after being reported missing for two days.
His death raised many unanswered questions and left Uganda’s entertainment industry in mourning. He is remembered for his immense contribution to East African entertainment, having worked with several media houses both locally and abroad.
Dr. John Spire Ssentongo Kiggundu
In May, the nation was shocked by the sudden death of renowned medical consultant Dr. John Spire Ssentongo Kiggundu.
The proprietor of Henrob Hospital died after suffering a heart attack. He was widely respected for his compassionate medical care, particularly in gynecology and endometriosis treatment.
Daudi Mugema
Musician Daudi Mugema was found dead in a hotel room in Gulu in June, where he had reportedly gone to seek financial assistance from Salim Saleh.
While the exact cause of death was not publicly disclosed, reports indicated that he had been battling complex health challenges and financial difficulties. Once a popular name in the music industry, Mugema died quietly, leaving many saddened by his lonely end.
Singer Gogo
The region mourned gospel singer Gogo in September after she died suddenly during a ministry tour.
Preliminary medical findings suggested a heart attack. The Rwandese singer passed away in Uganda and is remembered for gospel songs such as “Everyday I Need the Blood of Jesus,” “Uwiteka,” and “Good Bye I Going.”
MC Garvin
Shock gripped Eastern Uganda when popular MC Garvin was stabbed to death in what police described as a domestic-related incident.
His violent death reignited national conversations about domestic violence and personal safety. MC Garvin was a popular figure in Mbale City and its surrounding neighborhoods.
Sophie Kirabo
In October, businesswoman Sophie Kirabo, a director at the popular 3Hunnies Restaurant, died after a short illness.
Her death drew emotional tributes from Kampala’s business and social communities, where she was widely respected.
Olisha M
October ended on a painful note with the death of singer Olisha M, who reportedly died due to complications during childbirth.
Her passing deeply affected fans and fellow artists, highlighting both the fragility of life and the persistent dangers surrounding maternal health.