Teenage son of CID Director Magambo's death sparks outpouring of support

Kampala experienced a somber atmosphere as prominent figures gathered for a requiem mass for Timothy Muganzi Magambo, the 18-year-old son of Director of Criminal Investigations (CID) Tom Magambo and senior diplomat Carol Nalwanga Magambo. The service, held at Our Lady of Africa Catholic Church in Mbuya, saw attendance from high-ranking government officials, including the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, the Head of Public Service, the Governor of Bank of Uganda, and numerous permanent secretaries and directors from various ministries and security agencies.

Timothy tragically drowned on May 16, 2026, during a swimming excursion with friends in New York. Despite swift rescue efforts coordinated by Uganda’s UN Representative, Amb Adonia Ayebare, and medical intervention at Stony Brook Hospital, he was pronounced dead. His parents, who were in Uganda at the time, received the devastating news while his mother, Carol, was in Kampala for an interview. She managed to fly to New York, but it was too late.

During the service, the immense impact Timothy had on those around him was evident. Friends shared that he was a kind and loving individual, described by his mother as a “sunshine.” His parents were deeply moved by the overwhelming support from family, diplomats, and members of the Pelham community in New York, where Timothy attended school.

CID Director Tom Magambo displayed remarkable resilience, continuing his work even after learning of his son’s death, a trait attributed by Maj Gen Kahinda Otafiire to his strong lineage. Magambo spoke of his duty to protect the nation, drawing parallels to historical warrior leadership. Principal Judge Jane Abodo and PS Vincent Bagiire also shared their condolences, emphasizing the profound pain of losing a child and the promising future Timothy held.

While the grief was palpable, particularly when Timothy’s cousin struggled through her eulogy, the overall mood was one of stoic support and remembrance of a young life cut short but not without significance. The outpouring of love demonstrated how Timothy Muganzi Magambo, despite his young age, had made a lasting impression on many.