Mbale, Uganda, is reeling from the tragic death of 24-year-old Daniel Okello, who took his own life on Sunday following a failed attempt to reconcile with his girlfriend.
According to Superintendent Sarah Nakyobe, Mbale District Police Commander, the incident occurred when Okello visited the apartment of his 31-year-old girlfriend, Brenda Namukasa. After a prior disagreement, Okello sought to mend their relationship, but Namukasa refused to let him in. Devastated, Okello climbed to the third floor of the building and jumped from the balcony, sustaining fatal injuries. Despite efforts from bystanders, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Okello’s body was taken to Mbale Regional Referral Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem examination. Described by locals as vibrant and driven, Okello’s sudden death has left the community in disbelief. “He was full of life. No one saw this coming,” a neighbor shared.
Superintendent Nakyobe addressed the press, emphasizing the need for mental health support. “This tragedy underscores how critical it is to provide emotional care, especially for young people facing heartbreak or distress,” she said. She encouraged those in pain to reach out to counselors, religious leaders, or community groups.
The incident has fueled demands for stronger mental health initiatives in Uganda. Advocates are calling for mental wellness education in schools and public spaces to address the growing number of suicides linked to emotional struggles and depression.
As Mbale mourns, Okello’s loved ones are left with grief and unanswered questions about whether timely intervention could have saved him. Police are investigating the circumstances of the death and urging the public to support those showing signs of emotional distress.