By KT Reporter
Residents of Namugongo Nsawo Zone in Kira Municipality have raised alarm over the growing number of traditional healers establishing shrines in their community, expressing fears that this trend could increase the risk of ritual child sacrifices.
Michael Ssendawula, the Local Council I Chairperson of the area, said several unregistered traditional healers have settled in the community over recent months without the knowledge or approval of local leadership.
He noted that these individuals are establishing shrines across the area, some attracting large gatherings, which he finds troubling. “As the local council, we’re unfamiliar with these individuals, but it’s concerning to see shrines popping up everywhere.
Locals point them out to me, and I have observed large numbers of people gathering there, supposedly seeking healing. It’s deeply unsettling for our community,” Ssendawula said. Ssendawula also linked the surge in shrine activity to a rise in petty crime, including pedestrian attacks and house break-ins, which he believes are being carried out by criminals hiding out in these illegal shrines.
He has since appealed to police to intervene and dismantle the illegal shrines, warning that they pose a serious threat to public safety.
Joseph Musa, a resident living near one of the shrines, claimed that some traditional healers disguise themselves as regular tenants and later convert rented homes into shrines.
“We appeal to our landlords to be vigilant and thoroughly question these individuals before renting them houses. We also urge them to introduce these tenants to our local chairpersons to ensure the safety of our community,” said Musa.
Namuddu Shakilah, a resident of neighboring Namugongo-Buloli, expressed concern over the increasing number of shrines that have emerged in her area, drawing crowds daily—including boda-boda riders.
“We’re unclear about who’s responsible for licensing these traditional healers, but it’s alarming to see shrines popping up everywhere. The safety of our children is a major concern, given the horrifying stories of child sacrifices in these shrines. If we don’t receive support and action from the relevant authorities, we fear that our area may be next,” Namuddu said.
Over the weekend, Assistant Superintendent of Police Julius Tugumenawe, the newly appointed Division Police Commander of Kira, held a community meeting at the Uganda Martyrs Anglican Shrine to address public fears.
He assured residents that police would take swift action to investigate the matter and ensure the community’s safety. According to the 2024 Annual Crime Report, Uganda recorded 72 ritual murder cases last year—most of them involving children. While this marks a slight decrease from the 84 cases registered in 2023, authorities and communities alike remain deeply concerned-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
