The Kiboga Resident District Commissioner, Ms. Mariam Nalubega Sseguya, has initiated a programme to register all authentic traditional healers in the district in response to the tragic discovery of the mutilated bodies of five-year-old Esther Nakasumba and her two-year-old sister Sylvia Natongo. The sisters’ remains were found near Kasinina Elimu Church, close to their home in Kirinda, prompting concerns about child sacrifice.
Ms. Nalubega emphasized the importance of this head count and identification process to distinguish genuine healers from imposters who engage in criminal activities such as child sacrifice, theft, robbery, and rape. She expressed her determination to restore the reputation of traditional healers by eliminating those involved in unlawful acts. This initiative was announced during a security meeting held at Kirinda Village on April 5, attended by internal security officers, village chairpersons, and religious leaders.
Furthermore, Ms. Nalubega ordered the arrest of Sulamain Ssentongo, a traditional healer suspected of involvement in the ritual murder of the two siblings. She stressed the need for Ssentongo’s cooperation in the investigation to shed light on the heinous crime. The recovery of the victims’ bodies has shocked the community, highlighting the urgency of addressing the issue of fake healers and their potential links to such atrocities.
Deputy RDC of Kiboga District, Ms. Maria Lubega, emphasized the need to scrutinize the numerous shrines in the area to uncover any illicit activities. She pledged thorough investigations into each shrine to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.
Traditional healers have long been associated with cases of child sacrifice and mysterious deaths, particularly in the central region of Uganda. Additionally, allegations of sexual assault against women who visit these shrines have surfaced. While some healers claim supernatural abilities to enrich individuals, local leaders in neighboring districts have called for the banning of traditional healers due to deceptive practices.
Despite claims that healers use human remains to cast spells, such assertions lack scientific evidence. Nevertheless, the Kiboga District’s proactive approach aims to address these concerns and protect the community from exploitation and harm.
