What happened after the murder of Godfrey Wayengera from Compassion Uganda?
MUKONO, Uganda – On July 23, 2025, the Mukono Grade One Magistrate’s Court, presided over by Elizabeth Peace Lamunu, remanded seven individuals to Luzira Prison for their alleged involvement in the murder of Godfrey Wayengera, the Finance Director of Compassion International Uganda. The suspects, identified as Ashraf Tumusiime (alias Obadiah), 40; Muhammad Mwesigye (alias Jet Lee), 50, a Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) deserter; Fahad Kasolo, 30; Mike Ssenteza (alias Mwagamwaga), 40; Cpl Borban Mugabe, a military police officer stationed at Kololo; Dauda Kyangwe; and Derrick Keeya, face charges related to the violent abduction and killing of Wayengera, as well as the assault and robbery of Christine Najjabi.
When was Godfrey Wayengera killed?
According to the prosecution, the crime occurred on the night of June 9, 2025, in Nsuube, Mukono Municipality. The group, along with others still at large, allegedly used a fake pistol and sticks to abduct Wayengera and Najjabi. The assailants beat Wayengera to death and dumped his body near a railway line in Namumira. The prosecution further revealed that the suspects robbed the victims of valuables, including Wayengera’s mobile phone, valued at approximately Shs1.3 million, and a laptop worth about Shs3 million. Najjabi lost a Techno phone valued at around Shs800,000.
The court heard that investigations remain ongoing, and the prosecution requested the suspects’ remand to facilitate further inquiries. Due to the capital nature of the charges, which can only be tried in the High Court, Magistrate Lamunu did not allow the suspects to enter a plea. They were remanded until August 7, 2025, when their cases will be mentioned again.
Security sources disclosed that the arrests followed a directive from President Yoweri Museveni to apprehend those responsible for Wayengera’s death. The suspects were apprehended in various locations: Tumusiime in Kussatu along the Mukono-Kayunga Road, Ssenteza in a hideout in Busawuli Ward, Wakiso District, Kasolo in Kireka, Wakiso District, and both Mwesigye and Mugabe in Kagugube, Wandegeya, Kampala. Authorities noted that the gang, reportedly led by Tumusiime, had been operating in the Greater Mukono area for some time, engaging in criminal activities such as highway robberies.
What else was Godfrey Wayengera doing?
Wayengera, a respected figure in the community, was not only the Finance Director at Compassion International Uganda but also the director of Beloved Daycare and Nursery School in Nsuube A Cell, Mukono Central Division. A resident of Nsuube A Village, he was a dedicated Rotarian and a prominent leader at St. Hannington Church of Uganda in Mukono.
The brutal killing has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about safety in the Greater Mukono area. As investigations continue, residents and authorities await further developments in this high-profile case.
Who was Godfrey Wayengera?
Godfrey Wayengera, born in 1980 in Uganda, was a distinguished development professional whose life was marked by a steadfast commitment to community service, education, and child welfare. While specific details about his early life and birthplace remain limited, his educational background and career achievements paint a picture of a dedicated and accomplished individual. Wayengera earned a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership and Management from Uganda Christian University, equipping him with the skills to excel in non-profit management and leadership roles. His academic foundation underscored his commitment to ethical and effective organizational practices.
Wayengera’s professional journey was deeply rooted in the non-profit sector, with over a decade of experience in child rights programming and advocacy in both humanitarian and development contexts. He joined Compassion International, a Christian child development ministry focused on alleviating child poverty, though the exact date of his entry into the organization is not publicly documented. At Compassion International Uganda, he served as the Senior Manager of Business Support, a role that highlighted his expertise in training facilitation, team building, mentoring, and fostering organizational cohesion. His LinkedIn profile emphasized his dedication to ethical work practices, characterized by honesty and fairness, and his skills extended to preaching and defensive driving, reflecting his multifaceted contributions to community and professional spheres.
Beyond his work with Compassion International, Wayengera was the director of Beloved Daycare and Nursery School in Nsuube, Mukono District, where he championed early childhood education. His passion for education was evident in his leadership at the school, which served young children in the community. A resident of Nsuube A Village, he was also an active Rotarian, contributing to community development initiatives, and a respected church leader at St. Hannington Church of Uganda, where he played a significant role in spiritual and social outreach.
Wayengera’s personal interests included coffee farming, a pursuit he engaged in for ten years, reflecting his commitment to sustainable community development. His work extended internationally, as he participated in strengthening partnerships, including a visit to the Danida Fellowship Centre in Hoelbaek, Denmark. Known for his integrity and dedication, Wayengera left a lasting impact on his community until his tragic death on June 9, 2025, at the age of 45. His legacy as a devoted educator, community leader, and advocate for children continues to resonate in Mukono and beyond.
