Mbale woman burned by husband is currently recovering at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital after surviving a brutal domestic attack. Her husband poured boiling cooking oil on her during a fight that began over a phone call.
The victim, 26-year-old Anna Namwanja, sustained severe burns to her back, arms, and face. Police and doctors confirmed the incident took place on the evening of February 20, 2025, at the couple’s home in Nkoma Ward, Mbale Municipality.
According to witnesses, the fight started when Patrick Wandera, Anna’s husband, accused her of speaking to another man. Neighbors heard her scream and rushed over. They found her outside the house, crying and with visible burns.
“We’ve heard her scream before,” said one neighbor. “But this time it was different. She came out of the house crying, her skin peeling off.”
Earlier, Anna had reported her husband’s violent behavior to both family members and church leaders. However, those close to her dismissed the abuse as simple “domestic misunderstandings,” failing to intervene or take her seriously.
Police officers arrested Patrick Wandera soon after the attack. Authorities charged him with grievous harm, and he is set to appear in court on February 27, 2025.
Medical staff at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital said Anna remains stable and under close care. They confirmed she would need several rounds of treatment for her injuries.
Women’s rights activists condemned the attack and urged leaders to take immediate action against gender-based violence. “The cultural silence around abuse must stop before more lives are destroyed,” said a local advocate.
The incident has reignited conversations around domestic violence in Uganda. Many activists are demanding stronger laws and stricter enforcement to protect women from abuse in their homes.
Community leaders in Nkoma Ward have started planning awareness initiatives. They aim to educate residents about domestic abuse and empower victims to report violence without fear or shame.
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