Leaders Raise Alarm Over Road Accidents as Kikuube LC5 Chairman Banura is Buried

Mourners, including government officials and political leaders, have raised concern over the rising number of road accidents in Uganda during the burial of Peter Banura.

Banura, the Kikuube District Chairperson and son of veteran soldier Matayo Kyaligonza, died in a road accident on Saturday evening in Kiziranfumbi, Kikuube District.

The send-off ceremony began with a requiem mass led by Vincent Kirabo of the Hoima Catholic Diocese, who described the deceased as a devoted Christian.

“It is important to be ready all the time, but also love your God. As I know, God has received Banura because he loved Him and served Him all the time,” Bishop Kirabo said.

Family members and leaders paid tribute to Banura as a humble and dedicated public servant.

His widow, Mable Ajuna Banura, described him as a calm and supportive husband.

“He was a loving husband who, even in difficult times, chose silence and believed no situation is permanent,” she said.

She also thanked his parents for raising him well and appreciated the people of Kikuube for embracing him, despite spending much of his earlier life in Kampala, where he served as a councillor representing Kololo.

Banura’s children, Mathiew Businge and Martha Karungi, recounted their last conversation with their father.

“We spoke to him on Friday after seeing his WhatsApp status wishing people a happy Easter. Three hours later, we received the shocking news of his death,” they said.

A condolence message from President Museveni was delivered by the Prime Minister, Robinah Nabbanja, who also conveyed a contribution of Shs20 million to the family.

Nabbanja joined other leaders in raising concern over the increasing number of road accidents in the country.

“The Ministry of Works and the police need to step up. Who do you give permits, and how are people driving? It is very important,” she said.

Other leaders echoed similar concerns, calling for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations.

Finance Minister, Matia Kasaija urged road users to avoid reckless driving and alcohol consumption.

“I don’t know where the driver of the taxi that killed our son is, but I believe he must have taken alcohol. When you drink, don’t drive. Bodaboda riders, please stop rushing for money and be careful,” Kasaija said.

The Prime Minister of Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom, Andrew Byakutaga, described Banura as a strong advocate for culture and development in the region.

“We had a meeting just two weeks ago. He had a clear agenda and great ambition for Kikuube,” he said.

Kikuube District Vice Chairperson Opio Vincent revealed that Banura had prioritised completing the district headquarters and advocated for the management of Bugoma Forest.

In response, Nabbanja assured mourners that government had already taken action.

“The Bugoma issue is done. We have written to the Ministry of Tourism, and Uganda Wildlife Authority will take over. Anyone encroaching on the forest will have to deal with a firm team,” she said.

“On the district headquarters, we have signed the DRDIP Phase Two project, and my office will support its completion,” she added.

In an emotional but light moment, Maj Gen Kyaligonza drew laughter from mourners as he reflected on the large turnout.

“Banura is gone. I’m not sure who is next. I have never seen such a crowd at my home. When I die, will you come like this again?” he asked.

Supporters of Banura also appealed to the family to front another candidate for the district chairperson position.

“We supported Banura in appreciation of what General Kyaligonza has done for this country. We ask the family to give us another son or grandson to support,” they said.

Banura was laid to rest at his father’s home in Rumina Village, Kigaya, Buhimba Town Council in Kikuube District.