Mukono, Uganda: Police in Mukono District are investigating circumstances under which 21-year-old Kevin Nsamba, a Senior Six student at Seeta High School, died in a suspected drowning incident at the school’s Mbalala campus, marking yet another tragic death in a string of fatal cases linked to the Mukono-based institution.
The incident is said to have occurred on the afternoon of Sunday, August 3, but the school reportedly delayed informing authorities until Monday afternoon, sparking outrage from parents, students, and the wider community over the school’s handling of the matter.
Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy Spokesperson, ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, confirmed the incident and expressed concern over the late reporting by the school.
“It is alleged that after a football match, Nsamba and other students ran toward the swimming pool, where trainees were under the supervision of a lifeguard. Kevin reportedly jumped into the deep end,” said Owoyesigyire.
The student’s disappearance was only noticed during a late-night headcount after a movie screening. A search ensued, and his body was discovered the following day. Police say the school officially reported the incident around midday on Monday, nearly 24 hours later.
Police registered a case of suspected drowning and transferred it to Mukono Police Station. A joint team of detectives, forensic officers, and fire and rescue services visited the scene. The body was retrieved and taken to Mulago City Mortuary for a postmortem.
“We are currently reviewing CCTV footage and have arrested the pool trainer to aid in investigations,” Owoyesigyire added.
A Disturbing Pattern Emerges
Nsamba’s death is the latest in a disturbing series of tragedies involving Seeta High School. In May, Elishama Ssesaazi, a 16-year-old Senior Three student at the school’s main campus, was found dead in a suspected suicide. The findings of that investigation remain unclear.
Just a month later, Ivan Oloya, a teacher at Seeta High Mbalala, was murdered by unknown assailants under mysterious circumstances.
Earlier this year, in a separate incident at Mpoma Girls’ School in Mukono, Carnelian Mary Ndagire reportedly set herself on fire, allegedly protesting her return to school.
Parents and residents say the frequency and mystery surrounding these incidents suggest a deeper, unaddressed problem in student welfare and school governance.
“This is beyond coincidence. There’s a pattern that should worry every parent,” said a parent who requested anonymity due to fear of retaliation.
Seeta High School, once known for its high academic performance and prestige, is now under sharp scrutiny, with critics questioning its crisis response, mental health support, and overall safety standards.
Conflict of Interest Concerns
Education advocates and civic groups have called for independent investigations, raising conflict-of-interest concerns involving State Minister for Higher Education Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, who owns the Seeta High School franchise.
Some have warned that his influence may compromise the transparency of investigations.
Uganda continues to record high drowning cases, especially among children and youth. According to the Uganda Police 2023 Annual Crime Report, over 500 drowning deaths were reported last year, with the majority involving young people and school-age children.
As investigations continue, the Mukono community is demanding answers and urgent reforms to protect learners across all institutions.
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