Story perspectives

Ugandan Man Sentenced to Death for Stabbing Toddlers; Journalist Injured

5/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Judge Alice Komuhangi Khaukha sentenced Christopher Okello Onyum to death for stabbing four toddlers at Ggaba Early Childhood Development Centre.
Uganda’s judiciary convened a mobile court on the playground of Ggaba Community Church to hear the case before a packed local audience.
During the trial a prison van crashed into journalists, seriously injuring reporter Ronald Mukhwana.
Residents of Ggaba celebrated the verdict, while many Ugandans called for stricter child-protection laws.

History

Historical Context

Uganda ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child on 23 September 1990, binding it to protect anyone under 18—a definition confirmed by the treaty. With roughly 45 % of its 20 million people classified as children, the Ggaba preschool stabbing has revived calls, echoing Bangladesh’s 2013 Children Act push for stronger enforcement.

1 of 2

Story summary

Judge Alice Komuhangi Khaukha sentenced Christopher Okello Onyum to death for stabbing four toddlers at Ggaba Early Childhood Development Centre.
Uganda’s judiciary convened a mobile court on the playground of Ggaba Community Church to hear the case before a packed local audience.
During the trial a prison van crashed into journalists, seriously injuring reporter Ronald Mukhwana.
Residents of Ggaba celebrated the verdict, while many Ugandans called for stricter child-protection laws.

1 / 2