The slain Director of Students Affairs at Uganda Christian University (UCU), Pamela Tumwebaze, was planning to wed her new fiancé at the time of her tragic death, the University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, revealed during an emotional funeral service on Friday.
Speaking to mourners gathered at Nkoyoyo Hall at UCU’s main campus, Prof. Mushengyezi disclosed that although Tumwebaze had continued to execute her duties diligently, she appeared troubled in her final days.
“She looked depressed, although she did her job well. One day, I was forced to ask her what the matter was, but I think the Police will help us find out more,” Mushengyezi told the congregation.
While he did not disclose the identity of her fiancé or details about the planned wedding, reports indicate that Tumwebaze had initiated divorce proceedings against her husband, city lawyer Alex Matsiko, prior to her death.
University management confirmed it had taken responsibility for the funeral arrangements.
A Pillar Lost
In a message delivered on behalf of the University Chancellor, Dr. Stephen Kaziimba, Bishop of Mukono Enos Kagodo described Tumwebaze as a pillar of strength within the institution.
“Amidst all the challenges she was passing through, she remained courageous. We hold her family and friends in prayer. You will be dearly missed. Nevertheless, let us remember Tumwebaze by emulating her good work,” the message read.
Bishop Kagodo called upon the Police to expedite investigations and ensure transparency, including conducting a scene reconstruction similar to past high-profile murder cases.
Police Promise Justice
Kampala Metropolitan East Regional Commander Jonathan Musinguzi, accompanied by Mukono Police Division Commander Bernard Mugerwa, assured mourners that an inter-agency security team had been constituted to investigate the murder.
“We have come up with an inter-agency investigation force that will ensure that soon, the perpetrators of this crime are brought to book,” Musinguzi said.
Police suspect that Tumwebaze was strangled by a lone assailant at her home in Ggwafu-West, Mukono District, on Tuesday night.
Family Breaks Down
The most heart-wrenching tribute came from her sister, Dr. Rebecca Tumwebaze, who broke down as she recounted their final moments together.
“The last time I was with Pamela was in November last year. I was on a work assignment in different parts of Africa. So, I decided to channel my trip from Ireland through Uganda. I spent only two days here. Mum also drove from Mbarara and joined us. We shared a lot — we prayed together, cooked, and exchanged clothes,” she recalled.
Rebecca emotionally added that her sister had packed food for her journey back, forcing her to pay extra baggage fees.
“My sister was innocent; she did not deserve to die. But to those responsible, all I can say is that judgment awaits you for violently cutting short the life of Elijah and Noah’s mother. You may foolishly think you have succeeded, but hear me clearly; judgment awaits you,” she said.
Tumwebaze’s children, Elijah and Noah, also shared painful memories of their mother’s final moments.
Despite attending the service and laying a wreath on the casket, the children’s father, Matsiko, remained seated among other mourners and did not address the congregation.
A Life of Excellence
Born on September 30, 1979, to the late Charles Nkwiita Tumwebaze and Loe Tumwebaze, Pamela was the fourth-born in a family of six.
She pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Education at Uganda Christian University, graduating with a First Class degree and was retained by the university as a member of staff.
At the time of her death, she was pursuing a PhD in Journalism, Media, and Communication.
Colleagues described her as a dedicated Christian, mother, mentor, and leader who served the students’ fraternity with compassion and commitment.
She will be laid to rest in Kashari, Mbarara, on Sunday.
