Editor
John Babirukamu, one of Uganda’s finest digital marketers, tragically died by suicide on Friday, May 31, 2024, at Tagore Living, a high-end apartment block where he had checked in the previous day.
According to police, Babirukamu booked into the premises on May 30, 2024.
Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesman Luke Oweyesigyire reported that preliminary findings suggest Babirukamu jumped from the Level 2D balcony, landing in a neighbor’s compound and dying instantly. The reason for his suicide remains unclear.
Friends noted that he had been in good spirits and had shown no signs of distress.
Detectives are investigating whether Babirukamu had premeditated his actions or if he was overwhelmed by a sudden situation.
A police source, speaking anonymously, mentioned that they would examine his phone records.
Oweyesigyire stated, “Today, the Kira Road Police registered an incident of suspected suicide at approximately 11:40 AM at Tagore Living, located on Turnell Drive, Kamwokya, Central Division in the Kampala District.”
The incident was reported by the apartment manager, and the deceased was identified as John Birungi Babirukama, a 40-year-old ICT specialist and digital marketer residing in Kiwatule, Nakawa Division, Kampala.
Babirukamu’s body has been taken to the City Mortuary at Mulago for a post-mortem examination, with further information on the exact cause of death to be provided as it becomes available.
Shortly before his death, Babirukamu sent a message to his family’s WhatsApp group, expressing feelings of emptiness and apologizing for any inconvenience caused. He conveyed his love for his family and asked for forgiveness, mentioning his nieces and nephews as his last source of joy.
Despite family members’ attempts to reach him, his phone was turned off.
At the time of his death, Babirukamu was the General Manager at Hedge Marketing, a full-service communications and marketing agency, where he was responsible for business growth, client relationship management, strategy, talent management, and management oversight.
