The community of Rukungiri and the broader Kigezi region gathered today Wednesday April 30 to bid farewell to the late Benon Bitwiire,74, affectionately known as Uncle Ben, a revered mathematician, educator and gallant educationist whose legacy has left an indelible mark on countless students and the region at large.

During the funeral service held at Rwenshekye Rubanga in Buyanja subcounty, mourners listened attentively as the North Kigezi Diocesan Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Onesmus Asiimwe, delivered a heartfelt message. He reflected on the mysterious nature of death, describing it as an enigma known only to God. The prelate urged mourners to find hope and salvation in Jesus Christ emphasizing that faith is the ultimate answer to life’s uncertainties. “Death is a mystery (omubonano) and only Jesus Christ holds the key,” he stated.

Benon Bitwiire’s wife, Jessica Kyoshabire Bitwiire shared touching memories of her husband’s dedication to education and integrity. She highlighted that his impact extended beyond the classroom noting that he lived a life characterized by humility, compassion and unwavering empathy. The couple shared 45 years of marriage filled with love, laughter and companionship, blessed with six children and eleven grandchildren.

Family members, friends and colleagues paid tribute to Uncle Ben’s exemplary character. Daughter-in-law Hon. Natukunda Medius Kaharata, the Rukungiri District Woman MP described him as a dedicated teacher who served with passion and perfection. She expressed gratitude for the support the family received during this difficult time.

The late Uncle Ben’s children, led by Akampumuza Benson and Thiona Natukunda, described him as a peace-loving, kind and generous man who nurtured and educated them to become what they are today. They expressed profound appreciation for his sacrifices and teachings.

Rubabo County legislator Hon. Namanya Naboth called for unity and social-economic development. He urged political leaders and the public to desist from divisive politics of identity emphasizing that Uganda’s progress depends on unity and collective efforts. “We need to focus on transformation rather than politics of bickering,” he said.

The late Benon Bitwiire leaves behind his wife, five children and eleven grandchildren. His life and legacy as a passionate educator and committed family man continue to inspire many in the Kigezi region and beyond.

Police in Buhweju District have arrested 42-year-old Nshemerirwe Shallon in connection with the alleged murder of her husband, Bainomugisha Patrick following a domestic brawl on the night of April 13, 2025.

According to Greater Bushenyi Police Spokesperson SSP Martial Tumusiime, Nshemerirwe confessed to killing her husband during an argument that escalated at around 9:00pm. Reports indicate that she struck Bainomugisha on the head with a shovel, resulting in his death. The suspect cited ongoing domestic violence and frustration over her husband’s failure to provide for their children’s school fees as motives for the incident.

Following the alleged murder, Bainomugisha is accused of digging a pit in their bedroom, wrapping Patrick’s body in bedsheets and burying it there.

She was apprehended on April 14, 2025, in Mbarara City while attempting to flee the scene and is now in custody at Buhweju Central Police Station.

SSP Tumusiime stated that police are currently awaiting a court order to exhume the body from the home for further investigation.

The West Ankole Civil Society Forum(WASCoF) has launched the “Real Father” project specifically targeting fathers aged 25 years and below as a way of combating gender-based violence. The initiative was officially inaugurated during a five-day workshop for trainers held at Tuzza Hotel bringing together participants from six districts in the Ankole sub region.

Annet Mugisha, the Woman Member of Parliament for Bushenyi District, expressed her concerns about the government’s focus on promoting the rights and welfare of the girl child often at the expense of the boy child. “It’s crucial for parents to contribute to the upbringing of responsible citizens. Unfortunately, many fathers today are relinquishing their responsibilities leaving the burden solely on women,” Mugisha stated.

Nicholas Bashongoka, the Community Development Officer (CDO) from Buhweju District highlighted the prevalence of gender-based violence in his district and praised the initiative behind the “Real Father” project. He emphasized that the training will empower leaders particularly CDOs to guide young fathers on fostering harmony within their families.

Appolo Lee Kakonge, Chief Executive Director of West Ankole Civil Society Forum underscored that the workshop aims to equip CDOs with the necessary knowledge to address and mitigate incidents of gender-based violence that are rampant in the region. The selected districts for this initiative include Buhweju, Rwampara, Mitooma, Bushenyi, and Sheema.

The workshop was attended by CDOs, opinion leaders, gender officers and other stakeholders who are expected to pass on the knowledge and skills they acquire to leaders at the subcounty level. This collaborative effort aims to create a safer and more supportive environment for families ultimately reducing the rates of gender-based violence in the region.

Authorities in Rubirizi District are investigating the tragic death of Muhirwe Gerald,25 who reportedly drowned after escaping from police constables who were leading him to a police station on April 18.

The Greater Bushenyi Region Police Spokesperson, SSP Martial Tumusiime confirmed the ongoing investigations, “We are conducting investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding Gerald’s escape and death.”

Muhirwe was being transported to Rubirizi Police Station on charges including threatening violence against his family members—specifically his parents and brothers. He was at the time of arrest found in possession of opium.

He escaped while being escorted by Police Constables Mutabaazi John Mary and Okaka. He escaped while crossing the Kyambura Bridge in Kirugu Sub County.

A search effort was launched following his escape and on April 23 local residents discovered Gerald’s body in the river at approximately.

A postmortem carried out by Rugazi Health Centre IV revealed that drowning was the cause of Muhirwe’s death.

Police have meticulously documented the crime scene and are in the process of recording statements from witnesses. The post-mortem report indicated that his body was found with a ring and two rubber bangles which may assist in the investigation.

Gerald’s past raised concerns; he had a history of drug addiction and had previously threatened to kill family members. Notably, he had also recently been released from prison on similar charges, raising questions about his mental health and the circumstances leading to his escape.

The Resident District Commissioner for Kazo District, Capt.(Rtd) Yahaya Kakooza has urged all those intending to bear the National Resistance Movement flag for Local Council I (LCI) village party structures to prioritize peace and security throughout the election season.The exercise which kicked off on Thursday April 24 with nominations set to run until April 30.

Capt. Kakooza emphasized the importance of maintaining a respectful political environment and warned that individuals engaging in negative politics or defaming fellow candidates would face disqualification. “It is crucial that we promote peace during this election cycle as disqualification awaits anyone who undermines the integrity of the process,” he stated.

Addy Begumanya, the NRM District Administrative Secretary revealed that candidates who seek to contest for the LCI Chairperson seat will need to pay a non-refundable fee of UGXShs10,000 while those vying for positions within the village structure will not incur any costs.

Earnest Kagyegura, the NRM Registrar for Kazo Sub County expressed concerns regarding the registration process. He encouraged all interested individuals to register promptly to ensure their participation in the elections.

According to the NRM road map, campaigns for LCI flag bearers and village party structures will commence on May 1 with elections scheduled for May 6 while the district conference for electing district leaders will be held on May 25.

As the nomination process unfolds, local leaders and potential candidates are expected to uphold the values of the NRM and ensure a peaceful and fair electoral process.

Authorities at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital are urging the public to stay alert and adopt preventive measures against the spread of Mpox following a surge in confirmed cases in the region.

Halson Kagure, the hospital’s Public Relations Officer revealed that since October 2024, the facility has reported 422 confirmed Mpox cases out of 475 suspected cases. Of these, 279 patients have successfully recovered and been discharged while 14 are currently receiving treatment at the hospital’s Infectious Disease Treatment Center. Tragically, four individuals have succumbed to the disease during this period.

Dr. Deus Twesigye, the Acting Director of the hospital and a Senior Consultant in General Surgery highlighted the primary mode of transmission stating that majority of infections can be traced back to sexual contact. He cautioned that while physical contact is the main route of transmission, condoms may not provide complete protection against Mpox.

In response to the outbreak, the government has initiated a vaccination campaign aimed at high-risk groups including commercial sex workers, bar attendants and healthcare workers. According to recent reports, approximately 8,000 individuals have been vaccinated in Mbarara City.

As of April 14, the Ministry of Health reported a total of 5,386 confirmed Mpox cases nationwide with 40 fatalities recorded. Public health authorities continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance, proper hygiene and safe practices to curb the spread of the disease.

With the ongoing efforts to control the outbreak, Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital remains committed to providing care and support to those affected, while reinforcing the need for community cooperation in implementing preventive measures against Mpox.

Police in Rubirizi district are investigating circumstances in which a traffic accident occured on April 21 at around 2:00pm in Katunguru Trading Centre, claiming the life of a 48-year-old man.

The accident involved a Scania motor vehicle with registration number T951B/T8AS and a Bajaj Boxer motorcycle registration number UGD 423M which was red in color.

Martial Tumusiime, the spokesperson for the Greater Bushenyi Police confirmed the incident and identified the deceased as Innocent Kadenge a resident of Kyenzanza in Kirugu Sub-County in Rubirizi district.

According to preliminary reports, Kadenge was riding his motorcycle from Kasese towards Kyambura when he collided with a stationary vehicle at Katunguru Trading Center. The impact of the crash was so severe that he died instantly at the scene.

The body of Innocent Kadenge has been transported to Rugazi Health Center IV mortuary where it will undergo a post-mortem examination. Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident to determine the exact cause.

The Director for National Resistance Movement Manifesto Implementation, Willis Bashasha has called upon the public to desist from commercialization of politics emphasizing that it has led to the manipulation of leaders and the election of officials who do not reflect on people’s true choices. He asserted that it has resulted into poor service delivery across the region.

Speaking at the baptism ceremony of Elineo Nuwagaba’s children held at his residence in Kikuba village Ruharo Ward, Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality on Thursday April 17, Bashasha underscored the importance of accountability as the political season approaches. He urged current political incumbents to highlight the achievements of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) to demonstrate the party’s commitment to fulfilling its pledges from the last political cycle.

Annet Katusiime Mugisha, the Woman Member of Parliament for Bushenyi District echoed Bashasha’s sentiments and advised voters not to make decisions based solely on excitement or financial incentives which may lead to the displacement of proven leaders.

The ceremony was officiated by Fr. Rev. Felix Mutambi, a priest at St. Kaggwa Catholic Parish who praised Nuwagaba for leading his children in faith by bringing them to Christ.

The event also attracted notable figures including Dr. Eng. Silver Mugisha, Managing Director of the National Water and Sewerage Corporation and Councilor Muhereza Nicholas along with other political leaders who expressed their support for responsible leadership and community engagement.

A 30-year-old man has been lynched by an angry mob on Kashaka landing site in Katunguru Sub-County Rubirizi district following allegations that he murdered his wife.

Benard Musinguzi also known as Master was reportedly attacked on April 21, 2025 after the tragic incident involving his wife, Mackline Ninsiima. Authorities suggest that the altercation escalated when Musinguzi allegedly stabbed Ninsiima to death prompting the community’s outrage.

Lilian Mugume, a Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Officer for Rubirizi District reported that Musinguzi’s body was discovered some distance from his home bearing numerous injuries on the head which was indicative of a violent mob attack.

Martial Tumusiime, the spokesperson for the Greater Bushenyi Police confirmed the incident and stated that they are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the confrontation and subsequent lynching.

The body of Musinguzi was taken to Rugazi Health Center IV for a post mortem examination as authorities seek to piece together the events leading to this tragic loss of life.

Police in Buhweju District are investigating a disturbing incident involving four unidentified men dressed in army uniforms who are alleged to have committed aggravated robbery on April 18, 2025. The robbery, which took place around 9:30 pm in Musaana Village, Rwengwe Sub County resulted in the theft of two motorcycles, an unspecified amount of money and mobile phones from the victims.

Martial Tumusiime, the Greater Bushenyi police spokesperson confirmed that the incident was reported to the police on April 19, 2025, at 6:45 am. He identified the victims as Saturday Jonan, 31, a timber businessman; Goodman Tukashaba, 20; and Aron Katagira, 45, all residents of Nsiika LC1, Nsiika Town Council in Buhweju District.

According to reports, the victims were traveling from Bwizibwera Town to Nsiika Town Council on two separate motorcycles when they were ambushed in Musaana Village. As they arrived at the location, they were stopped by three armed men who were dressed in military uniforms and brandishing a firearm. The victims were reportedly tied to eucalyptus trees with ropes while the assailants made away with their two motorcycles—registration numbers UFR 384R and UFE 828K—along with their mobile phones and a sum of money.

Saturday Jonan, one of the victims who reported the incident to the police described the robbery as a premeditated act suggesting that the culprits had strategically planned the attack in an area surrounded by eucalyptus trees to facilitate the crime.

Authorities are actively pursuing leads in the case and are urging anyone with information regarding the incident or the suspects to come forward. The police have heightened patrols in the area to deter further criminal activity as they continue their investigation into this alarming incident.