Government Shuts Ggaba Daycare and Two Sister Schools After Toddler Stabbing Tragedy

Uganda’s Ministry of Education and Sports has mandated the immediate closure of Ggaba Early Childhood Development Centre in Kampala, along with Maranatha High School and Maranatha Christian Primary School, all operated by Ggaba Community Church. The decision follows a horrific Thursday morning incident where a 39-year-old man, Christopher Okello Onyu, entered the daycare and fatally stabbed four toddlers: Gideon Eteku, Alungat Kaise, Ignatius Sserwange, and Ryan Odeke, all around two years old.

Minister of State for Higher Education, Dr. John Chrysestom Muyingo, issued the directive after visiting the bloodstained crime scene on Friday. He instructed parents to immediately collect their children from all three institutions and ordered the daycare management to submit a detailed report and statements to police.

“The centre should close with immediate effect until further notice,” Dr. Muyingo stated, emphasizing guidance from security agencies and the Makindye Education Office. Ggaba Community Church remains operational during the ongoing probe into the April 3, 2026, attack.

The minister announced a nationwide review of school security to prevent future incidents and pledged psychological support for affected staff, teachers, and surviving children. He also committed government aid to the bereaved families.

Church spokesperson Jacqueline Sewava confirmed plans for a special memorial service, while board member Stanley Okecho noted the facility’s origins as a rehabilitation centre for malnourished children, now serving needy kids via sponsorships and staff dependents.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)