The family of Ahmed Mukasa Nsanja, a 30-year-old Ugandan student on an Egyptian government scholarship at Al Azhar University, is mourning his tragic demise in Egyptian police cells. Nsanja, pursuing studies in Cairo, reportedly faced fatal beatings by fellow inmates while in police custody following his arrest during a crackdown on illegal migrants on December 27, 2024.
Uganda’s embassy in Cairo confirmed that Nsanja, legally residing in Egypt but lacking proper documentation, was detained, leading to the unfortunate incident. Sheikh Ramathan Mulindwa, Luweero District Kadhi and a family member, shared that Nsanja had received a scholarship in 2019 to study at Al Azhar University, known for its Islamic teachings and diverse academic programs.
The family received news of Nsanja’s death through a communication from the Ugandan Embassy on January 14. The embassy urged them to raise USD 3,500 for repatriating the body to Uganda, a financial hurdle yet to be overcome as of the weekend.
Mulindwa appealed to the government, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for assistance in pursuing justice and facilitating the repatriation process. Nsanja’s mother, Nusurah Nalwoga, expressed her anguish over her son’s untimely death, while Hussein Sebwato, another family member, recalled a phone conversation where the late student detailed heightened police operations against illegal migrants in Egypt. The family awaits support to address this heartbreaking situation.
