Deaf Link Uganda Founder Barbara Nassozi Kiyaga Shot Dead During Birthday Vacation In Kisoro

NEWS | CRIME & SECURITY | KISORO

The founder and Executive Director of Deaf Link Uganda (DLU), Barbara Nassozi Kiyaga, has been shot dead during a violent attack at Mucha Lodge in Kisoro District, in an incident that has raised fresh concerns about the safety of visitors and tourism establishments in southwestern Uganda.

Kiyaga, 58, was killed in the early hours of Thursday, November 5, 2026, when unidentified armed assailants reportedly breached the lodge premises, triggering an exchange of gunfire with security personnel.

According to preliminary information, the attack occurred between 1:00am and 2:00am as Kiyaga was staying at the facility for a vacation to celebrate her 58th birthday.

She reportedly sustained seven gunshot wounds and died at the scene.

The incident also left a security guard injured after he was shot in the legs during the confrontation.

Police have confirmed the killing and identified the deceased as Nasozi Kiyaga, a Kampala resident who had checked into the lodge as a guest.

Gunfire Exchange At Mucha Lodge

The attack occurred at Mucha Lodge along the Mutolere–Nyundo Road, near Lake Mulehe.

Preliminary reports indicate that unidentified armed men entered the lodge premises before security personnel responded, resulting in a gunfight.

Kigezi Region Police spokesperson Nelson Tumushime confirmed that the incident left Kiyaga dead and a police officer injured.

The injured officer was identified as Police Constable Charles Mukesi, who sustained a gunshot wound to his left leg while guarding the premises.

He was rushed to Kisoro Hospital for treatment and was reported to be in stable condition.

Police have since launched investigations into the murder and attempted murder, while a security operation has been initiated to track down the assailants.

Authorities have appealed to members of the public to remain calm and provide any information that could assist investigators in identifying and apprehending the suspects.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear.

A Birthday Vacation Turned Into A Tragedy

Kiyaga had reportedly travelled to Kisoro for a vacation, with the visit intended to celebrate her 58th birthday.

The peaceful getaway, however, ended in tragedy when the lodge was attacked in the middle of the night.

Her death has sent shockwaves through Uganda’s disability advocacy community, particularly among organisations and individuals working to advance the rights and welfare of deaf people.

The circumstances surrounding the shooting have also raised questions about the security arrangements at tourist accommodation facilities, especially in a district that attracts visitors to its scenic lakes, national parks and mountain gorilla-tracking destinations.

Who Was Barbara Nassozi Kiyaga?

Kiyaga was the founding Executive Director of Deaf Link Uganda, a non-governmental organisation established to promote the welfare, inclusion and advancement of deaf people in Uganda.

Through her leadership at DLU, she became associated with efforts to support people with hearing disabilities and promote greater recognition of their rights and opportunities within society.

Her death represents a significant loss to the organisation and the wider disability inclusion movement.

The circumstances of her killing have left colleagues, beneficiaries and members of the public seeking answers about why such a violent attack occurred during what was meant to be a personal celebration.

Kisoro Faces Renewed Security Concerns

The killing comes amid growing concern over violent attacks in Kisoro District.

On October 17, 2026, prominent businessman Africano Nteziyaremye and his wife, Peace Kyompeire, were shot dead at the gate of their home in Zindiro Cell, Kisoro Municipality.

The Mucha Lodge attack has further heightened concerns among tourism stakeholders about the safety of visitors and residents.

However, police have not established any connection between the separate incidents.

Kigezi tourism leaders have called for stronger security measures around lodges and other facilities frequented by visitors.

As investigations continue, the immediate priorities remain identifying the attackers, establishing the motive behind the shooting and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.

For Deaf Link Uganda, the death of its founder is not only a personal tragedy but also a profound loss to the community whose welfare she dedicated her work to advancing.

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