The kidnappers held her captive for nearly three weeks, demanding up to $1 million before accepting about $200,000 (approximately UGX 700 million). During her captivity, they cut off two of her fingers and sent them alongside a video of her pleading for help to pressure her family into paying the ransom.
Akena referred to historical statements by President Museveni acknowledging the destruction of food supplies and the destitution of about 2.7 million people during that period. He argued that the loss of cattle deprived communities of daily nutrition, household income, school fees, draft power, and soil fertility, leaving effects that continue to be felt today.
"I believe those who are elected into those top government positions should be of good ethics and integrity and be people who understand family values and are responsible for the actions they take. I have a big passion for Uganda, which is why I wanted to start the East African European Convention to bring together all East Africans living in the diaspora. Still, unfortunately, it did not materialize," Kayanja said.
Jada and Smith have been separated since 2016, but are still technically married and have not filed for divorce. She revealed the separation in October 2022, during an interview with Hoda Kotb on The Today Show. Jada said that they separated because they were exhausted with trying to improve their marriage. The couple has not divorced but decided to live separate lives.
The brutal murder of Aisha Kigongo at the hands of her husband Richard Nsubuga in Mpigi district is a tragic reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence fueled by jealousy and suspicion. For instance, in June 2024, in Kayunga district, a 34-year-old man identified as Fred Ngobi grabbed a machete and cut off his wife’s hand, Fatuma Babirye, on allegations of infidelity.