A 77-year-old woman is nursing third-degree burns from a failed suicide attempt after she tried to set herself ablaze in Kyengeza A village in Kirumba sub-county, Kyotera district.

The victim identified as Noelina Nakabubi burnt herself on December 9, 2024, to end her misery from the neglect of her children.

Initial reports show that Nakabubi drank petrol and set herself on fire because she had been depressed for a long time due to her children’s neglect in taking care of her despite them knowing about her condition.

According to her neighbor, Sam Kazibwe, Nakabubi had been battling sickness and depression from her children’s neglect for a long time.

Kazibwe added that none of Nakabubi’s six children cared to provide her with financial and other basic needs to cater to her hospital bills or a better treatment.

’’Nakabubi was in a lot of pain emotionally and mentally, and what she needs is her children’s attention, care, and love, which I believe will be her therapy and will heal her.’’ Kazibwe said.

One of the locals, Edith Nante, revealed that Nakabubi drank some petrol, showered the remaining portion before setting herself ablaze.

Nante said that though the fire was successfully put out, Nakabubi was left in a critical condition.

“It was already too late because she was already in a depressed condition, and it is what has pushed her to attempt to kill herself,’’ Nante stated.

She called upon Nakabubi children to come take care of her because she is in a critical condition and needs financial and emotional support from them.

Nakabubi was taken to Kalisizo General Hospital for emergency healthcare and further treatment.

The rising number of deaths related to familial neglect in Uganda underscores a critical need for systemic change. It highlights the importance of not only addressing immediate care needs but also fostering a culture of responsibility and support within families.