On December 29, 2025, mourners gathered at Kyoogo Church of Uganda in Kamwezi Sub-county, Rukiga District, to mourn the tragic loss of seven family members. Ivan Niwagaba, his wife Brendah Ainembabazi, their five children, and Niwagaba’s cousin Sayuni Turihohabwe died in a crash on December 27 along the Kampala–Mbarara Highway.
As the service began, tears flowed freely. Mourners laid wreaths on seven caskets, which rested beside the altar. Kigezi Diocese Bishop Gaddie Akanjuna led the Anglican service. In addition, Rukiga Member of Parliament Roland Ndyomugyenyi attended to represent the government.
Many mourners struggled to comprehend why God would take an entire family. However, others found comfort in the words of Amos Mwesigwa, a close family friend. He explained that the deaths were part of God’s divine plan. “It was God’s plan,” Mwesigwa said. “Ivan, the driver, was an experienced professional. Furthermore, we are deeply grateful for the support we have received.”
Winfred Buyonjo, an aunt to Niwagaba and Sayuni, also shared her experience. She had planned to travel with the family but postponed her trip. “Some people thought I was among the victims because we always traveled together during the holidays,” Buyonjo explained.
A recorded message from Benon Turyamureba, Niwagaba’s father and Sayuni’s uncle, was played for mourners. Turyamureba, who had been bedridden before the crash, expressed his sorrow. “Although my health is poor, the loss of my children has devastated me,” he said.
In addition, Kyomugabe Turyamureba, his wife, described the loss as overwhelming. “I was caring for my husband when I received the tragic news,” she recalled.
Bishop Akanjuna referred to death as “a thief” during his sermon. He also praised the police and the community for their efforts in supporting the family. “Losing seven people from one family is not only rare but incredibly heartbreaking,” he said.
After the service, mourners laid the bodies to rest at the family’s ancestral home in Rwamasyazo Village, Kamwezi Sub-county. This tragedy has drawn attention to Uganda’s ongoing road safety issues. According to the 2024 police crime report, an average of 25 lives are lost daily to road accidents and violent crimes.
Moreover, this incident has highlighted the urgent need for safer roads and improved traffic management. The grieving community continues to call for reforms to prevent such tragedies and protect lives in the future.
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