WAKISO, Uganda — Ugandan police have launched an investigation into the sudden death of comedian Yokana Mbuuse, popularly known as Kapere Lufotose, after he collapsed during a school visitation and graduation ceremony in Wakiso District.
Kapere, 56, reportedly complained of a severe headache before collapsing in front of his wife, Lydia Nakandi, and other parents attending the event at Jolivo Day Care and Junior School in Kyimbejja on Sunday, November 1.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Racheal Kawala confirmed that investigations had commenced, adding that a post-mortem examination would be conducted to establish the cause of death.
The comedian had accompanied his wife to the school to visit their daughter, Queen, and was reportedly in a cheerful mood as he watched pupils perform on stage.
According to a statement recorded by the school’s director at Nsangi Police Station, the incident occurred as top-class pupils prepared to cut a cake during the ceremony.
Kapere reportedly complained of a severe headache before biting his tongue and collapsing to his knees.
His wife, who was holding a baby, became distressed as other parents raised the alarm. Those present reportedly laid him on a mat in an attempt to assist him, but he barely responded.
He was first rushed to the nearby Zam Zam Clinic, where medical personnel reportedly determined that he needed further medical attention.
He was subsequently transferred to Royale Health Services Hospital in Buddo, Wakiso District, where he was pronounced dead at approximately 5:45pm.
Speaking at Naguru Police Headquarters in Kampala, Kawala said police were investigating the circumstances surrounding his sudden death.
She said a post-mortem examination would establish the actual cause of death, which had not been officially determined.
Wife recounts comedian’s final moments
Nakandi told journalists that her husband had been experiencing financial difficulties and had expressed concern about how he would raise money to pay rent shortly before collapsing.
Her account has added another dimension to the circumstances surrounding his final hours, although police have not linked the reported financial difficulties to his death.
The circumstances of his collapse remain under investigation, and the post-mortem examination is expected to provide further information.
Kapere’s rise to fame through Amarula Family
Kapere became a familiar name in Uganda’s entertainment industry through the Amarula Family comedy group, where he performed alongside Allan Mujuni, popularly known as Amooti, and Nicholas Mpiirwe, alias Messe Bontwe.
The group gained popularity through its distinctive style of comedy, characterised by expressive facial performances, physical humour and memorable characters.
Kapere later became a recognisable television personality through comedy skits on WBS TV’s Side Mirror programme.
His performances helped establish him as one of the familiar faces in Uganda’s comedy scene, with audiences drawn to his distinctive comic character and ability to turn ordinary situations into humour.
He also appeared in music videos, including Mr Money by National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine.
Kapere’s political involvement and Bobi Wine’s tribute
Beyond entertainment, Kapere was an outspoken supporter of NUP and regularly participated in the party’s activities at its headquarters in Kavule, Kampala.
His association with Kyagulanyi extended beyond the political arena, with the two sharing a friendship and professional connections through entertainment.
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Following news of his death, Kyagulanyi paid tribute to the comedian, describing him as a loyal friend and comrade whose humour brought light during difficult moments.
The opposition leader also remembered Kapere as a person who loved his country and wished it well.
Other political leaders, entertainers, supporters and members of the public have also expressed grief over his death.
Kapere’s passing has left his family, colleagues and fans mourning a performer whose comic identity made him a recognisable figure in Uganda’s entertainment industry.
As police await the post-mortem findings, the investigation is expected to establish what led to the comedian’s sudden collapse and death at his daughter’s school.
