Museveni Tasks Minister Anywar to Address Nakayima Tree Tragedy

President Museveni has tasked Beatrice Atim Anywar, the Minister for Water and Environment, to oversee the government's response to the tragic collapse of the Nakayima tree, a historical and spiritual landmark.

The incident, which occurred on December 4, left five people dead as they gathered to prepare for end-of-year celebrations in honor of Nakayima.

Accompanied by environmental authorities, security personnel, and local leaders from Mubende District, Minister Anywar visited the site and chaired a stakeholders' meeting.

She expressed gratitude to the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for securing the area and emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring public safety at the site.

“I have been sent by the President. He heard about what happened here. We, along with the district team, have come to assess the situation, understand the status of the tree, and determine what the government can do to ensure this place is safe for those who believe in Nakayima,” Minister Anywar said.

She noted the historical significance of the tree and pledged that the government would return for further engagements after her report to the President.

She also commended security forces for their swift action in cordoning off the site to prevent further accidents.

“I want to thank the security team for securing the site. After the incident, many people continued coming here, and without their efforts, we might have seen further accidents. I urge the public to hold off on visiting until we ensure the place is safe,” she added.

Community Concerns

Believers in Nakayima have urged the government to reopen the site, citing spiritual connections.

“I request the government to allow us to remove the tree branches and blood stains from this place because whenever I sleep, I receive dreams from Nakayima telling me to do so,” said Nabukeera Catherine, a spiritual servant.

Tour guide James Wabwire highlighted the economic impact of the closure, noting that turning away visitors affects the site's reputation.

“This affects us greatly because when you turn a believer away, they often spread rumors that Nakayima no longer exists,” he said.

Moses Kagambagye, a councillor for Kiruuma Sub-county, called for financial support for the site's caretakers, who have lost their income due to the restricted access.

“These people no longer earn an income because the site has been cordoned off. Many visitors used to bring them offerings. The government should consider providing them with financial support,” he said.

Minister Anywar assured the community that their concerns would be presented to the President.

“I have heard all your requests, and I will inform the President,” she said. She also appealed to residents to respect the directives issued by the RDC’s office.

“I appeal to all of you to avoid coming to this place until the government clears it,” she cautioned.

The government’s next steps aim to balance the site's cultural and spiritual significance with public safety, ensuring that such tragedies are prevented in the future.