By Our Reporter
The devastating deaths of a young family in Katende Triangle, Bugembe, have sparked renewed calls for urgent attention to mental health and domestic violence support services in communities across Uganda.
The incident, which claimed the lives of 25-year-old boda boda rider Edirisa Isabirye, his wife Mirabu Kakazi, 17, and their nine-month-old daughter Mirabu Munana, has left residents in shock and grief. Authorities say the tragedy appears to be the result of prolonged domestic strife and emotional turmoil that escalated to a fatal breaking point.
According to Kiira Region Police spokesperson SP James Mubi, Isabirye allegedly set a charcoal stove alight under the couple’s bed while Kakazi and their baby slept. The resulting blaze trapped them both, leading to their deaths before help could arrive. After the fire destroyed the room, Isabirye is believed to have taken his own life by hanging.
Preliminary investigations reveal a troubled relationship marked by frequent arguments, unresolved conflicts, and emotional distress.
“Reports suggest their relationship was severely strained,” SP Mubi said. “Continuous conflicts and a lack of intervention likely contributed to this heartbreaking outcome.”
Mubi urged couples and families facing domestic challenges to seek timely support and counseling, warning that unaddressed disputes can escalate into irreversible tragedy.
“There is an urgent need for couples to prioritize mental health, resolve conflicts peacefully, and reach out to trusted support systems when challenges arise,” he emphasized.
This incident has ignited conversation around the growing need for accessible mental health services and domestic violence prevention initiatives, particularly in communities with limited resources. Local leaders, religious institutions, and social workers are being called upon to increase awareness and create safe spaces for dialogue and conflict resolution.
Community leaders in Jinja have expressed deep sorrow over the loss, pledging to work closely with organizations that promote mental health awareness, relationship counseling, and domestic violence prevention.
“We must ensure no one suffers in silence,” said one local council representative. “Families need tools and resources to address conflicts before they spiral out of control.”
Burial Arrangements & Mourning
The three victims will be laid to rest in their respective ancestral homes. Kakazi will be buried in Namagera Town Council, Jinja District, while Isabirye and his daughter will be interred in Bukoma Sub-county, Luuka District.
As the community mourns, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unresolved domestic disputes and the critical need for early intervention, mental health support, and open communication within families.
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