The Government of Uganda through the Ministry of Education and Sports has ordered the immediate closure of Maranatha Christian Day Care Centre and its affiliated Primary and Secondary Schools in Ggaba, Makindye Division, following a brutal attack where 4 young children were killed an act that sent shockwaves across the country.
The directive was announced by the Minister of State for Higher Education who is currently holding the portfolio of Minister of Education and Sports, Hon Dr John Chrysostom Muyingo, during his visit to the scene where he met grieving families, school staff and members of the community.
The victims who included three boys and one girl were reportedly stabbed to death in a tragic and senseless act.
According to preliminary Police findings, the suspect identifiedas Christopher Okello Anyu, is believed to be a resident in the area, gained access to the school premises by posing as a parent seeking admission before carrying out the attack.
He has since been arrested and remains in police custody as investigations continue.
While addressing the nation Dr Muyingo expressed deep sorrow and described the incident as a moment of profound grief for both the affected families and the entire country and emphasized that schools must remain safe spaces for children and should never be scenes of violence.
As part of immediate measures, the Government of Uganda has directed parents to urgently pick their children from the affected institutions, including the Day Care, Primary and Secondary sections under the same management and the schools will remain closed until further notice to allow for comprehensive investigations and safety assessments.
The Minister clarified that the institution is registered under the Kampala Capital City Authority and has been operating within established regulatory frameworks, including routine inspections.
However, the Government has now initiated a thorough review to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify any security gaps.
Minister Muyingo assured the public that justice will be served, commending security agencies for their swift response in apprehending the suspect and further noted that Government has begun a broader review of safety measures in schools across the country to strengthen protection for learners.
In addition, the Minister said that arrangements are being made to provide psychological support and counseling services to affected learners, teachers, and families to help them cope with the trauma.
Minister Muyingo called on the public to remain calm, support the bereaved families, and allow investigative authorities to carry out their work without interference.
Muyingo called for calm as investigations at the Day Care Centre continue.
The tragic incident has however raised serious concerns about safety in education institutions, particularly early childhood centers, with Government reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that all schools remain secure environments for learning.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Ms Rachael Kawala told journalists that investigations into the matter are ongoing and a full report will be issued in the due course.
