By Our Reporter
Police have launched a full investigation into a devastating sauna explosion that left at least three women critically injured on Sunday night, August 24, at Buziga Country Resort in Makindye Division, Kampala.
The blast occurred around 8:30 PM, shattering the tranquility of the upscale resort and sending shockwaves across the neighbourhood. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos, with screams piercing the air as rescue teams and good Samaritans rushed to pull the victims from the wreckage.
The injured women, all clients at the sauna, were identified as Hajjat Masutula, 69, the Vice Chairperson LC1 of Katuuso Cell; Zahara Nakaweesi, 39; and a woman only identified as Aisha (Rama Aisha). All three sustained life-threatening injuries, including extensive burns and, in one case, a broken leg. They were first rushed to Kiruddu Hospital, before being transferred to Nsambya Hospital and Mulago National Referral Hospital for specialized treatment.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy Spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire, the explosion caused substantial structural damage to the sauna facility, with part of the building collapsing and other sections suffering serious cracks. “The blast was extremely powerful,” Owoyesigyire said. “Our preliminary findings show extensive damage, with debris, broken glass, and bloodstains found across the scene.”
The cause of the explosion remains unknown, though early reports suggest a major mechanical or structural failure may be to blame. The area has been sealed off, and police say they are working closely with experts from the Uganda Building Review Board (UBRB) to examine the site.
Growing Safety Concerns in Uganda’s Health Clubs
The incident has reignited public concern over safety standards in Uganda’s leisure and wellness industry, particularly in saunas and steam baths, which have become increasingly popular in recent years.
This is not the first time such an incident has occurred in Kampala. In September 2019, a steam bath explosion at Marco Gym and Spa in Kyaliwajjala left five people injured. Investigations later revealed that a faulty boiler valve had caused a dangerous gas buildup, leading to a violent blast.
In response to the latest incident, police have scheduled a meeting with UBRB officials to discuss improved regulation and safety oversight of health clubs. At a security briefing on Monday, Owoyesigyire said the collaboration aims to “prevent a repeat of such tragedies by identifying gaps in safety systems and enforcing compliance with building codes.”
A 2021 UBRB study on 21 randomly selected health clubs revealed alarming lapses: 90% used firewood as fuel for heating systems—systems often lacking pressure regulators, temperature monitors, or ventilation. In July this year, the Board issued new safety guidelines targeting biomass-powered health facilities, focusing on proper system design, installation, and maintenance.
Police have confirmed that no arrests have been made so far, but investigations will determine whether the resort’s management failed to adhere to safety protocols. “If negligence is found, legal action will follow,” Owoyesigyire stated.
The involvement of building and safety experts in the ongoing investigation is expected to play a crucial role in assessing liability and potentially recommending charges against the facility’s owners or operators.
As the victims fight for their lives in intensive care units, the public awaits answers—and accountability.
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