Ugandan comedian Yokaana Mbuuse, popularly known as Kapere Lufotose, has died at a hospital in Buddo, Wakiso District, prompting an outpouring of grief from fellow entertainers, fans and political leaders who remembered him as a performer who brought laughter to audiences through his distinctive style of comedy.
Kapere died on Sunday, November 1, 2026.
Kapere Lufotose’s management has confirmed his death, although details surrounding the circumstances remained limited. The cause of death had not been publicly established by the time of publication, with some reports indicating that management had ruled out illness as the reason.
The announcement drew emotional tributes from leaders of the National Unity Platform (NUP), the opposition party led by Robert Kyagulanyi Sentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, with whom Kapere had developed a close association in recent years.
In a statement, Kyagulanyi described the comedian’s death as devastating, remembering him as a friend, brother and political comrade whose presence brought light during difficult moments.
“A few moments back, I just received the most devastating news regarding the untimely passing of our brother, dear friend and comrade Yokana Mbuuse fondly called Kapere Lufotose,” wrote Bobi Wine.
“A man who made every dark moment light. A man who loved his country and wished it well! A loss so difficult to take in.”
Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament and Nakawa West MP, also expressed shock at the news, recalling that he had met Kapere at the party’s offices in Kavule just days before his death.
“Just last week, we were with Kapere Lufotose at NUP offices in Kavule,” wrote Ssenyonyi.
“It is so sad to learn that he has passed on. Kitalo nyo dala!”
From difficult childhood to Uganda’s comedy scene
Kapere was one of the recognisable personalities in Uganda’s entertainment industry, having built his reputation as a member of the Amarula Family, the comedy outfit associated with veteran comedian Amooti Omubalanguzi.
He performed alongside other entertainers, including Messe Bontwe, appearing in live comedy shows, television skits, music videos and online content.
His distinctive appearance, expressive facial gestures and physical comedy made him stand out among performers, helping him develop a loyal following across different audiences.
As Uganda’s entertainment industry increasingly embraced digital platforms, Kapere also became active on social media, particularly TikTok, where his comedic performances continued to reach new audiences.
His entry into comedy, however, was largely accidental.
In a 2013 interview, Kapere recounted how a stranger noticed his appearance and encouraged him to meet Amooti Omubalanguzi, an encounter that eventually opened the door to his career in entertainment.
Before joining the Amarula Family, he had endured a difficult childhood marked by rejection and had taken on various odd jobs to survive.
Among the work he had done was making key holders and working as a gatekeeper, experiences that preceded his eventual breakthrough in comedy.
His journey from those humble beginnings to becoming a familiar face in Uganda’s entertainment industry made him a relatable figure to many of his fans.
Marriage, family and political ambitions
Kapere was married to Lydia Nakandi, popularly known as Mama Trump.
The couple had been together for approximately 14 years and had four children.
In recent years, he had also ventured into politics, aligning himself with the National Unity Platform and its leader, Kyagulanyi.
His political involvement culminated in June 2025, when he collected NUP expression-of-interest forms with the intention of contesting for the Makindye parliamentary seat.
His association with the opposition party brought him into contact with several of its prominent leaders, including Kyagulanyi and Ssenyonyi, who have now joined fellow Ugandans in mourning his death.
Tributes pour in
Following the announcement, tributes began circulating across social media, with fans and fellow entertainers remembering Kapere for his unique performance style and ability to turn personal challenges into laughter.
His death marks a loss for Uganda’s comedy industry, where he had established himself as a distinctive performer through years of stage appearances, television productions and digital content.
Condolences continued to be extended to his wife, children, relatives, friends and fellow members of the comedy industry.
Funeral arrangements had not been announced by the time of publication.
As news of his death spread, many Ugandans continued to reflect on the comedian’s contribution to the country’s entertainment industry and the laughter he brought to audiences throughout his career.
Kapere Lufotose’s death happens months after the sudden demise of Sebina and Comedian Bontwe’s death in 2024. (See Details Here and There).
