Five dead, six injured after tree branch falls on pilgrims at Nakayima cultural site  

At least five people have been confirmed dead after a tree branch fell on pilgrims at the Nakayima Tree Shrine in Mubende District, in what authorities described as a tragic incident that left six others hospitalised.
According to eyewitnesses, one of the huge branches of the mythical Nakayima tree broke off, falling on eleven pilgrims who regularly flock the  site for traditional rituals.

Police identified some of the deceased as Annet Akabuye, a 45-year-old businesswoman and resident of Kasana Cell , Masaka City and Evelyn Twebaze , a 39-yearold resident of Mikiisa Village Bukomansimbi District.

Particular of the survivors currently admitted at Mubende Regional Referral hospital are yet to be provided.

Mr James Wabwire, a tour guide at the cultural site told  Monitor that the pilgrims had gathered at the site at around 6am Wednesday morning  to pray to their ancestors in preparation for an annual thanksgiving cultural function scheduled for today (November 5).  
However, Mr Abubaker Birungi , the deputy Mubende Resident District Commissioner ,  has suspended the event as authorities evaluate the situation.

According to Mr Birungi, caretakers of the cultural site visited his office on Tuesday  to inform him about the planned event.
“I instructed the District Police Commander (DPC) to inspect the site. The inspection revealed that the site   was unsafe due to the presence of dry tree branches that could fall and cause harm. Despite these warnings, some people chose to sleep under the tree, which led to the tragic incident,” he said.

He said security personnel have been deployed at the site to bar spirit worshippers and tourists from converging in the area.
“We will inform people when it is safe to reopen the site after consultations with the district security committee. Security personnel will guard the site   to prevent anyone from approaching the tree,” the deputy RDC said.

The tragic incident has sparked widespread speculation in Mubende , with some residents  questioning whether it was a natural accident or an offering demanded by the spirits associated with the Nakayima tree.
“Being a cultural site, anything can happen. The spirits sometimes take blood by killing those who believe in them,”  Mr Samuel Ssekitto , a resident in Mubende Town claimed.

The Nakayima Tree Shrine, believed to be 340–400 years old and standing approximately 40 meters tall, is known   for its spiritual significance and healing powers. The site attracts   numerous pilgrims and tourists seeking miracles, healing, and wealth, especially during the festive season.