Questions remain surrounding the death of a Makerere University student whose lifeless body was discovered inside a fenced compound on the university campus.
The deceased has been identified as Kabuye Kelvin Charles, a second-year student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT).
Kabuye’s body was discovered in the early morning of September 28, 2026, inside the fence housing an MTN mast opposite the University Library.
Makerere University confirmed the death in a statement issued by the Office of the Dean of Students on Wednesday, September 30, describing the incident as a loss to the university community.
“Makerere University confirms with deep sadness the death of Kabuye Kelvin Charles, a second-year student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT),” the university said.
The circumstances surrounding how Kabuye died, however, remain unclear.
According to the university, security personnel reported the discovery to police shortly after the body was found.
“University security promptly reported the matter to Makerere Police Station,” the statement said.
Police officers subsequently responded to the scene, with the investigation now being handled by homicide detectives and forensic personnel.
“Police officers responded immediately and have handed over the investigation to the Wandegeya Homicide Desk and Scene of Crime Officers,” Makerere said.
At this stage, the university has not disclosed what may have led to the student’s death, and authorities have not announced whether the death is being treated as an accident, suicide or suspected foul play.
Makerere said the cause of death remains unknown, pending further investigations and a medical examination.
“The cause of death is not known at this time; however, a post-mortem examination has been requested, and investigations remain ongoing,” the university stated.
The institution said it is cooperating with police as detectives work to establish the circumstances surrounding the death.
“The University is fully cooperating with the Uganda Police Force,” the statement added.
Kabuye’s death has since triggered mourning among his family, friends and fellow students, with Makerere extending its condolences to those affected.
“The University Management extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and classmates of the late Kabuye Kelvin,” the university said. “We share in this profound loss and pain.”
The university has also acknowledged that the incident could affect members of its community emotionally and urged students and staff who need assistance to seek professional support.
“Members of the University community who may be affected by this incident are encouraged to seek assistance,” Makerere said, adding that “Counselling and psychosocial support services are available to all students and staff through the University Counselling and Guidance Centre.”
Makerere said it remains focused on the safety and welfare of its students and staff as the investigation proceeds.
“Makerere University remains committed to the safety and well-being of its students and staff,” the statement said.
For now, the circumstances that placed Kabuye inside the fenced MTN mast compound and what happened before his body was discovered remain unanswered.
The university said it will release more information when it receives official findings from the authorities.
“We will provide further updates as official information becomes available from the investigating authorities,” Makerere said.
The post-mortem examination and ongoing police investigation are expected to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding the death.
