Kampala, Uganda – Authorities are investigating a suspected poisoning incident following the death of Martha Ahumuza at Mezzo Noir nightclub in Kololo, Kampala. The incident occurred on Wednesday night, March 19, 2025, and is currently under investigation by the Kira Road Police Station.

According to SSP Patrick Onyango, the spokesperson for Kampala Metropolitan Police, Martha Ahumuza met with Edward Mugabo, also known as Eddie, who works as a cashier at the bar. The two were reportedly together around 2:00 AM on Wednesday. They consumed drinks until approximately 3:30 AM, after which they moved to the manager's office, an area not monitored by CCTV cameras. It was in this office that Martha Ahumuza collapsed.

Edward Mugabo then contacted his brother, Joseph Kalenzi, and together they transported Martha to Kampala Hospital. Upon arrival, she was immediately placed on life support, but unfortunately, she passed away shortly thereafter. Both Mugabo and Kalenzi have been taken into custody and are currently held at Kira Road Police Station to assist with the ongoing investigation.

In light of these events, Mezzo Noir nightclub has temporarily ceased operations, citing "unforeseen circumstances." The management has stated they will provide updates regarding the reopening of the establishment as soon as more information is available.

The family of Martha Ahumuza Murari has released details regarding her burial arrangements. Martha was born on December 13, 2002, and was the daughter of Seth Murari, the Presidential Advisor on Sports. A vigil will be held today, Friday, March 21, 2025, at Kembabazi Catering Centre in Naguru, Kampala. A church service is scheduled for Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 10:00 AM at All Saints Church, Kampala. An additional service will be held on Saturday evening in Nyarubanga, Mbarara, followed by the burial on Sunday, March 23, 2025, in Nyarubanga.

The Minister of State for Youth and Children’s Affairs, Balaam Barugahara, has expressed his concerns about the incident and the broader issue of substance abuse. In a statement on X, Barugahara noted his sadness over the loss of the young woman and urged police and security agencies to expedite their investigations and take swift action against the sale of illicit drugs in high-end bars across Kampala. He emphasized the need to protect young people from substance abuse to prevent further loss of life and sanity, and he encouraged community members to collaborate with the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development and the police to address the issue.

Martha Ahumuza was 23 years old at the time of her passing.