LOSCO QUARTERLY HUMAN RIGHTS SITUATION ANALYSIS AND KEY ISSUES IN KIGEZI
July 1, 2025
Dear Human Rights Defenders, Actors and Partners in the Promotion and Protection of Human rights;
A Happy New Month!
Local Sustainable Communities Organisation (LOSCO) extends warm New month greetings and welcomes you to this Quarterly Human Rights Situation Review and Analysis. We trust that the past quarter concluded positively for you, and as we embark on this pivotal election year, we look forward to collective engagement in fostering inclusive participation, democratic accountability, good governance, and the rule of law.
In this edition, LOSCO presents key highlights from the previous quarter, focusing on the evolving human rights landscape, emerging challenges, and the environment in which human rights defenders operate in Uganda. We sincerely appreciate your continued interest and commitment, and we invite you to reflect on how you can contribute—at sub-national, national, regional, and global levels—to the promotion and protection of human rights, governance, and the rule of law.
Below are some of the highlighted issues:
Security Guard Shoots Herdsman Dead in Rukiga
Police in Rukiga District arrested a 21-year-old security guard attached to Safe Tech Security Company for allegedly shooting and killing a 22-year-old herdsman.
The suspect, identified as Musinguzi Silas, is accused of fatally shooting Nabimanya Kendrick, a resident of Kigara B Cell in Kigara Parish, Kamwezi Sub-county. At the time of the incident, Musinguzi was stationed as a guard at the Rukiga SACCO, Kamwezi branch. The deceased, along with a fellow herdsman only identified as Alias Owamahoro, was tending cattle along the Muhanga–Kamwezi road when the suspect, armed with a gun, passed by with a woman as they walked toward Muhanga.
Police reports indicate that Kendrick followed the pair, allegedly trying to identify the woman accompanying the guard. Musinguzi, reportedly provoked by Kendrick’s actions, turned back and shot him, killing him on the spot.
https://thesource.co.ug/crime/security-guard-shoots-herdsman-dead-in-rukiga/
Bishop Rubaramira Confirms 16 inmates into Catholic Faith in Kabale
The Bishop of Kabale Diocese, the Rt. Rev. Callist Rubaramira confirmed 16 inmates into the Catholic faith during a Mass at Ndorwa Government Prison in Kabale Municipality.
During his homily, Bishop Rubaramira urged the newly confirmed inmates to remain steadfast in their faith, drawing hope and strength from God as they navigate their challenging circumstances. This is to enhance the promotion and protection of the right to worship.
MEETING WITH THE UHRC: LOSCO in a way of giving accountability we had to pay a courtesy visit at the UHRC Regional Office headed by Ms. Theopista Twembi to share LOSCO Program Report, the Strategic plan and also share some IEC materials whereby as partners, we take the initiative to share the experience and knowledge on the best practices. We are focusing on stretching our engagement catchment to include the UPDF added to the Police, Prisons, Probation and UHRC.
Among the issues that came up was the UHRC App and how through partnership and collaboration can be popularized to create more impact and advance the promotion and protection of Human Rights.These can be through different fora to make it known and since CSOs reach out farther and wider, this can be done. We have to consistently drive this to a very stable end because LOSCO is a key partner in the region when it comes to Human Rights and Governance because the integration of Human Rights in all aspects of Governance and Accountability cannot be over emphasized. This is a very good complementary aspect since through the National Coalition for Human Rights Uganda we have some referral and reporting mechanisms.
Land Wrangles Spark Uproar in Kisoro as Locals Accuse Man of Grabbing Widow’s Property
There are tensions in Nyundo Parish, Nyundo Sub-county, Kisoro District, as residents protested against a self-proclaimed legal practitioner, Mukundufite Evarist Sebisaho, whom they accuse of rampant land grabbing.
Frustrated locals issued warnings of possible mob justice if the matter is not addressed swiftly.
The latest uproar follows allegations that Sebisaho forcibly took over five plots of land belonging to his sister-in-law, Feredianah Tumusiime, an elderly widow from Buzaniro Village who has been caring for eight orphaned children since the death of her husband, Kalaveri Bataringaya, in 2022.
Residents allege that Sebisaho has been involved in multiple land grabs across Nyundo Sub-county, targeting both private and public properties. They caution that continued inaction may lead to unrest, with some threatening to take the law into their own hands.
Man Killed by Falling Debris at Kisoro Sand Quarry
A 25-year-old man tragically lost his life after being buried by falling debris while mining sand at the Kabeshero sand mine in Gakoro Village, Rwingwe Parish, Nyakabande Sub County, Kisoro District.
The deceased was identified as Ozius Niyonsaba, a peasant and resident of the same village. The incident reportedly was reported to Kisoro Central Police Station by Michael Rwerekana, the Local Council One Chairperson of Gakoro Village.
According to police reports, Niyonsaba had earlier attended morning prayers at Gakoro Catholic Church with his wife, Rosette, and his mother, Gertrude Mukankusi.
https://thesource.co.ug/current-affairs/man-killed-by-falling-debris-at-kisoro-sand-quarry/
Kisoro Woman Arrested for Allegedly Killing Own Child by Drowning in Water Tank.
Police in Kisoro District arrested a 25-year-old woman accused of murdering her own daughter by allegedly drowning her in a neighbor’s water tank.
The suspect, Ruhangariyo Jacklyn, a resident of Mulindi Village in Muhindura Parish, Kanaba Sub-county, was arrested on Friday morning, April 11, 2025, after the body of her 2-year-8-month-old daughter, Irasubiza Salvation, was recovered from a water tank in their neighborhood.
According to Kigezi Region Police Spokesperson ASP Elly Maate, the tragic incident occurred in the early hours of Friday morning, while the children were left under the care of their grandfather, Kubwimana Herbert.
Upon hearing this, the grandfather raised an alarm that drew the attention of residents.
DNMCs GET ACTIVATED AND EMPOWERED TO EXECUTE THEIR ROLES IN THE REGION
The Human Rights Centre Uganda (HRCU), in partnership with The Uganda National NGO Bureau and Uganda National NGO Forum (UNNGOF) with support from the Embassy of Ireland in Uganda, are implementing a project entitled “Enhancing a Sustainable relationship between the National Bureau for NGOs and the Civil Society Sector in Uganda through Dialogue.” The project is being implemented in the 7 districts of Arua, Lira, Moroto, Gulu, Soroti, Kabale and Mbale.
The primary beneficiaries of this program are the District/City/Sub County NGO Monitoring Committees, the National Bureau for NGOs, NGOs, Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies, Security agencies and communities. This project seeks to:
(i). Operationalise section 5(f) of the NGO Act Cap 109;
(ii). Establish a platform for sustained dialogue between the civil society sector and government through the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
(iii). Improve the understanding of NGOs regulatory framework through capacity
building of NGO monitoring committees and NGOs.
The 1995 Constitution of Uganda guarantees the right of every Ugandan to engage in peaceful activities to influence the policies of Government through civic organizations. The Government of Uganda recognizes the important role of non-State actors in accelerating the country’s development process and complementing the different Government programmes.
The contribution of NGOs in the areas of service delivery, advocacy, democracy and good governance as well as community empowerment has been commendable in Uganda over the years. However, the process of NGO sector development, methods of work and the impact of NGO program activities, among other issues, have continued to generate varied and sometimes contradictory views and experiences.
The enactment of the NGO Act Cap 109, the NGO Regulations 2017 and the NGO Policy is legitimate and necessary in our growing democratic society. The challenge, however, is the implementation by both, the duty bearers (Government line Ministry, Department and Agencies) and NGO leaders who have not fully appreciated their responsibilities and obligations under this legal framework.
Empowering Citizens: Majambere’s Plea for Increased Voter Engagement
Celebrated Legal Drafter and Counsel Esther Majambere sounded the alarm on Uganda’s declining voter turnout, urging the Electoral Commission and stakeholders to intensify voter education campaigns ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Majambere, also a Kanungu District Woman MP aspirant, expressed concern over the steady decline in voter participation, citing statistics that show a drop from 72.9% in 1996 to 57% in 2021.
She attributed low participation to voter fatigue and growing disillusionment among the electorate, in addition to discouraging statements like “whether you vote or not, a candidate will win,” which she stated damages people’s perception that their vote doesn’t matter.
The aspiring legislator added that many voters focus solely on casting votes for presidency and MP seats, ignoring local government elections due to a lack of understanding of the magnitude these levels of seats hold.
https://westernpearlreports.com/empowering-citizens-majamberes-plea-for-increased-voter-engagement/
PARTNERSHIP WITH DEFEND DEFENDERS TAKES ROOT
A courtesy visit by our great Partners Defend Defenders to discuss area of capacity enhancement on Human Rights Monitoring, Reporting and Documentation and how Digital transformation will enable the safety and security of HRDs in Human Rights Work in Kigezi sub Region. Thanks to the team led by @Janvier, @julian, @emma.
Mob Burns Suspect’s Home and Plantation After Murder in Rukiga
An angry mob set fire to a house and destroyed a banana plantation belonging to Denis Tumwijukye, whom they suspect of murdering a man in Kabishaka Village, Nyakashebeya Parish, Kashambya Sub-county, Rukiga District.
The mob accused Tumwijukye of killing Atwebembere Christopher, also known as Sadam, a resident of the same area who was murdered on April 15, 2025.
Following the incident, Tumwijukye and three others identified as Nasasira Danson, Mwesigwa Alyson, and Turyasima Denis were arrested by police in connection with Atwebembere’s death.
During a search of Tumwijukye’s house, opened by his mother, two plastic chairs with bloodstains were recovered.
KABALE RDC Stops all Land surveying activities
The Kabale RDC Mr. Godfrey Nyakahuma stopped acts of unlawful land surveys and making roads in people’s crop gardens in Buhara sub county which has more iron ore mining fields.
The directive came after May 20 petition to his Office from about 100 local residents in Kijonjo B and Kyase villages in Buhara Sub county that complained about unlawful surveys, intimidation, forces eviction and selling of their land by the employees of Sino minerals investment co. ltd.
Sino minerals investment co. ltd is executing the establishment of a USD 34 million iron ore processing factory in the iron ore rich Buhara sub county of Kabale District where they claimed to have secured about 75 acres of land for smooth operations and a total of over 1,000 people will be directly employed.
SARAH NAHUMIZA DIRECTOR REGIONAL SERVICES PAYS A COURTSEY VISIT TO LOSCO
Appreciated LOSCO and the CSOs for the mileage given to the Commission and the complementary approach in UHRC interventions in Civic Engagements.
In the discussion was to better understand the Methodologies – What has worked and what needs to be done, Community approach (Dialogues, Stakeholder Meetings), Stakeholder Engagement (Always with different stakeholders for capacity enhancement), HR Handling – Swift and feedback shared, sharing Quarterly Reports, Annual Reports and Memos/Press Releases. (Tripartite Engagement with UHRC, Police, LOSCO) and Media approach (Radio talk shows)
As a way to impact communities the Human Rights App has to be given some more sensitization for effective use for far wide impact.
Also to establish the Entry Points for community engagements from LOSCO and Sister Agencies, Strengthening Citizen Engagement and Public accountability and engaging communities anchored on HRBA
How can the Commission work together to support the process?
Should be doing civic Education on a regular basis with Human Rights mass awareness much needed.
There is much need for the commission to be enabled better and hope that all aspect of their mandate is executed. Since DGF ceased, the funding has been greatly challenged.
AND MORE IMPORTANTLY, Address the issue of Alcoholism is disintegrating the communities and the issue of Religious divisions in politics.
Residents Protest Poor Services and Abandoned Projects in Rukiga District
Residents of Rukiga District are up in arms over poor service delivery and the abandonment of key government programs, saying they feel betrayed by the promises made when the district was carved out of Kabale in 2017.
Locals say they expected improved services and better governance after gaining independent district status, but these hopes have yet to materialize.
Gideon Bandebaho Tumwijukye, an aspirant for the Kashyambya Sub-county district councilor seat, cited the abandoned Kantare–Rushekyera–Nyarubisi road. Constructed under the Agriculture Cluster Development Project after the COVID-19 lockdown, the road was only completed up to Rushekyera, leaving the Nyarubisi section untouched. Bandebaho said the incomplete road has severely affected transport between villages and business centers, especially during the rainy season, hindering farmers from accessing markets.
Stakeholders in Kabale Decry Growing Religious Sectarianism in Politics
Stakeholders in Kabale District raised concerns over the rising tide of religious politics, warning that it may fuel division among residents and undermine effective service delivery.
The concerns were raised during a district stakeholders’ engagement organized by the Local Sustainable Communities Organization (LOSCO), in partnership with the Uganda NGO Forum, held on Thursday at Kirigime Guest House in Kabale Municipality. The dialogue focused on human rights advocacy and economic empowerment for vulnerable communities.
“We risk returning to the divisive days of Idi Amin. As citizens, Article 38 of the Constitution mandates us to participate in governance. We must fight religious divisionism; it’s pulling us backward.” LOSCO Executive Director, Mr Albert Taremwa, said.
Rubanda Stakeholders Advocate for Mentorship Programs in School
Authorities in Rubanda district are advocating for enhanced for enhanced sensitization and mentorship programs in schools to combat the rising issues of student dropout and sexual harassment. They made the appeal during a one day stakeholders meeting held at Volcano Hotel in Rubanda District.
The engagement was aimed at validating the findings from citizen’s engagement under the Strengthening Citizens’ Participation and Public Accountability (SCEPA) project that was organized by Local Sustainable Communities Organisation (LOSCO) in partnership with Uganda National NGO Forum supported by the Embassies of Denmark, Netherlands, Ireland and Sweden.
Religion’s Growing Influence in Politics in Kigezi is a Human Rights concern as Actors Raise Alarm Over
Human Rights Actors from across the Kigezi Sub-region expressed deep concern over the increasing infiltration of religion into local electoral politics, warning that the trend threatens democratic values and inclusive governance.
This was during a one-day dialogue held at Kirigime Guest House in Kabale Municipality, organized by the Local Sustainable Communities Organization (LOSCO). The event brought together key human rights advocates, security officials, and representatives from civil society organizations under the framework of the Strengthening Citizen Engagement and Public Accountability (SCEPA) project—a four-year initiative implemented in collaboration with the Uganda National NGO Forum and supported by the Royal Danish Embassy.
Kigezi Region Police Spokesperson ASP Elly Maate urged the public to reject the growing practice of religious interference in politics, cautioning that some churches are increasingly prioritizing political platforms over their spiritual mission.
Address the Discrimination of Learners with special needs in Schools
The Call was made by stakeholders from The Uganda Police Force, Local Sustainable Communities Organisation, LOSCO, Health Workers and Educationists gathered at Kirigime Guest House in Kirigime Ward Southern Division Kabale Municipality Kabale District during a half day Workshop organized by LOSCO Uganda.
Discrimination of Learners with special needs in Schools has been greatly attributed to Teachers who dodge their responsibility of focusing on these learners as per their Professional training, because they do not only need attention in class but also other necessities such as learning materials such as walking sticks for the visually impaired, special Latrines and toilets. In Kabale, Rukiga and Rubanda districts we have such school that is Hornby High School in Kabale and Kitanga Primary School in Rukiga.
Kabale Man Found Murdered with Neck Stab Wound
Police in Kabale District have launched investigations into the mysterious death of 30-year-old Mugisha Remegio, also known as Katoote, a resident of Nyakatojo Cell, Kanjobe Parish in Kyanamira Sub County.
Mugisha’s lifeless body was discovered lying by the roadside along the route to Burambira in Kaharo Sub County, with a deep stab wound on the neck, suggesting he was murdered.
Police officers visited, documented, and processed the crime scene before transferring the body to Kabale Regional Referral Hospital for postmortem examination.
https://thesource.co.ug/crime/kabale-man-found-murdered-with-neck-stab-wound/
Kyanamira Reels After Gruesome Murder of Local Man
Residents of Kyanamira Sub-County were thrown into shock after the discovery of a brutally murdered 30-year-old man along the Burambira-Kaharo road.
The victim, identified as Mugisha Remegio alias Katoote from Nyakatojo Cell, Kanjobe Parish, was found with a deep stab wound to the neck, lying in a pool of blood in what appears to have been a targeted attack.
The fatal neck wound suggests a deliberate killing, prompting local leaders led by Chairperson Bakesigaki Alex to immediately report the incident to Kyanamira Police Station. Police responded swiftly to the scene.
https://westernpearlreports.com/throat-slashed-kyanamira-reels-after-gruesome-murder-of-local-man/
Police Arrest Two Suspects Over Assault and Defacement of Campaign Posters in Rubanda.
The territorial police in Rubanda District arrested two suspects in connection with allegations of assault and defacement of campaign posters belonging to Hon. Minister Henry Musasizi.
According to ASP Elly Maate, the Kigezi Region Police Spokesperson, the suspects—Ndamwesiga Bruno and Ainebyona Isaac, both residents of Kabugu Village, Bushura Parish in Hamuhambo Town Council—were arrested following separate incidents that occurred on June 29, 2025, at around 12:00 AM, and July 5, 2025, at approximately 3:00 PM.
The victim, Danavence Tumwebaze, a 68-year-old agent of Hon. Musasizi, reported that on July 5, suspect Ainebyona, also known as Yine, forcibly entered her home, removed a campaign poster of the minister from the wall, tore it apart, and went further to break a plate on her table. Before leaving, he allegedly assaulted her by kicking her.
The suspects were apprehended in a police operation led by Rubanda District Police Commander (DPC), Barugahare Abel Kyooto. They are currently in custody as investigations continue and will be presented to court accordingly.
Gruesome Murder Shocks Rukungiri: Elderly Man Slain for Half-Sack of Coffee
Rukungiri Police launched a manhunt for unidentified assailants who murdered a 79-year-old man in Rukungiri and made away with half a sack of coffee.
The deceased has been identified as Benard Biryomumisho of Kasharara Village, Ibanda Parish, Nyarushanje Sub-County, Rubabo County. His body was discovered in his home on Monday, July 7, 2025.
Reports indicate the deceased was last seen alive on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at around 4:00 PM at Nyarushanje Trading Center, where he was seen heading home. Later that night, he retired to his house, where he lived alone.
It is alleged that unknown assailants forcibly entered the house through the door, proceeded to the bedroom, and attacked Biryomumisho, inflicting multiple deep cuts on his head that resulted in his instant death.
The grim discovery was made at approximately 3:30 PM on Monday when the victim’s son, Ndyareba Boneventure, went to check on his father and, upon pushing open the door, found Biryomumisho lying dead in his bedroom.
Heightened Security in Hamuhambo Following Arrests Linked to Attack on Minister Musasizi’s Convoy.
Police heightened security in Hamuhambo Town Council, Rubanda District, following the arrest of four individuals accused of stoning and damaging the vehicle of State Minister for Finance, Henry Musasizi.
The suspects—Kenneth Owoyesiga, Apollo Tumusingyize (alias Map), Bruno Ndamwesiga, and Isaac Ainebyoona—are all residents of Hamuhambo Town Council. Several others, identified only by their first names—Callist, Joshua, Rogers, Pulika, Ambrose, and Yuni—are currently wanted by police.
The group is alleged to have hurled stones at Musasizi’s convoy as it departed the area, smashing the windows of his vehicle.
In addition to vandalizing the minister’s vehicle on Thursday evening, the suspects are also accused of assaulting Musasizi’s agent, 68-year-old Danavence Tumwebaze, a resident of Bushura Parish.
Musasizi, the incumbent Rubanda East MP, had been campaigning for a fourth term, accompanied by Rubanda District LC V Chairperson Stephen Ampeire Kasyaba, who is also seeking re-election. During the rally, Musasizi warned that anyone harassing or assaulting his supporters would be “firmly dealt with,” asserting that he is now “very strong and capable of doing anything.”
Conclusion
The findings of this human rights situational analysis and monitoring underscore persistent challenges and emerging concerns affecting the protection and promotion of human rights in Kigezi – South Western Uganda. While there have been notable efforts by state and non-state actors to uphold fundamental freedoms, gaps remain in the enforcement of legal protections, access to justice, civic space, and the safety of human rights defenders.
This report highlights that systemic issues—such as limited accountability, political interference, shrinking civic space, and socio-economic disparities—continue to undermine the realization of rights for vulnerable and marginalized groups. Environmental and digital rights are also emerging areas requiring urgent attention.
To advance human rights, there is a critical need for stronger collaboration among government institutions, civil society organizations, development partners, and communities. LOSCO has always endeavored and continued monitoring, responsive policy reforms, increased civic engagement, and targeted support for human rights defenders are essential steps toward creating a more just, inclusive, and accountable society.
Sustained action, grounded in human rights principles and inclusive dialogue, remains vital for safeguarding human dignity and ensuring no one is left behind.
WISH YOU THE BEST IN THE UPCOMING QUARTER