Nation Mourns at Veteran Thespian Alex Mukulu Final Service

Hundreds gathered at Namirembe Cathedral to honor legendary actor and playwright Alex Kigonya Mukulu, who passed away at 72.

NAMIIREMBE, KAMPALA — The atmosphere at Namirembe Cathedral was heavy with grief and celebration today as hundreds gathered to bid farewell to the legendary actor and playwright, Alex Kigonya Mukulu. The revered artist, who passed away at the age of 72, was honored in a service filled with music, tributes, and tears.

Alex Mukulu first saw the light of day in 1954, though the exact details of his birth remain a subject of speculation among historians. Despite being born in Singo, on a farm in Namutamba, Mukulu will not be laid to rest there. Instead, his final resting place will be at Kijjabijjo, along Gayaza Road in Kyadondo.

Born in 1954, the late actor leaves behind a legacy that has shaped Ugandan theater for decades. The exact month of his birth remains unrecorded by biographers, but Mukulu often spoke fondly of the year 1954 as the beginning of his remarkable journey.

Today, an estimated 5,000 people thronged Namirembe Cathedral, filling the historic church to capacity. Among those in attendance were:

· Musicians and fellow artists

· Political leaders from both central government and the Buganda Kingdom

· Delegates from the Buganda Parliamentary Caucus

· Ordinary citizens, children, and family members

Charles James Senkubuge, the leader of the largest Ba-Kayimbira choir group, dressed in the traditional Alabama mass attire, led the congregation in hymns and offered a moving tribute.

Speaking about Mukulu, Senkubuge described him as "one of the pillars behind the production of Caesar's Fire" — a play that the late artist held dear. Senkubuge revealed that General Saleh personally requested that Ba-Kayimbira members, many of whom had worked alongside Mukulu, perform at the funeral.

"Alex Mukulu was a giant among artists. His contribution to the creative arts industry is immeasurable," Senkubuge stated.

Following Senkubuge's tribute, Patrick Mugwanya Lugumbule, the deputy Speaker of the Buganda Parliament, addressed the gathering on behalf of the Kingdom. He delivered a heartfelt message that touched the hearts of all present, emphasizing Mukulu's commitment to preserving cultural values through his work.

Joel Ssenyongi, the Opposition Chief Whip in the Parliament of Uganda, described Mukulu as a national treasure. He noted that Mukulu's famous play "30 Years of Banana" was not merely entertainment but a profound commentary on Uganda's political journey.

"Many thought Alex Mukulu was involved in politics. In truth, he was an educator of the nation using the stage as his classroom," Ssenyongi observed.

In this solemn moment, Charles James Senkubuge called upon John Segawa to speak about Mukulu's personal life. Segawa, one of the individuals who knew and understood Mukulu best, shared intimate memories of the late thespian.

Several notable political figures delivered tributes, including:

· Eugenia Nasolo, Member of Parliament for Lubaga South

· Kassirye Ssendagire Mohammad, an NRM stalwart

Both spoke about the immense void Mukulu's passing leaves in Uganda's cultural and social landscape.

Edger Mukulu, on behalf of the children and the entire Mukulu family, was overcome with emotion. Through tears, he expressed the deep love and bond the family shared with their patriarch.

The Government of Uganda was represented by the State Minister for Gender and Culture, Mary Kutesa Kamuli, who delivered an official government message honoring Mukulu's legacy.

After the service, police assisted in carefully removing Mukulu's body from the cathedral. The procession then proceeded to his home in Bulange Mengo, on Kabaka Njaga Road — the house he cherished and where he chose to spend his final days.

This evening, the family will hold a vigil at the residence as they prepare for the burial, which is scheduled for tomorrow, August 16, 2026, at Kijjabijjo on Gayaza Road.

Born in 1954, Alex Kigonya Mukulu died at the age of 72. For many Ugandans who grew up watching his plays, listening to his wisdom, and laughing at his humor, his loss feels deeply personal.

The curtain has fallen on the life of a giant. But as his loved ones bid him farewell at a small private burial tomorrow, Ugandans are reminded that Alex Mukulu's legacy will live on in the hearts of those he inspired through his work.