President Museveni Grants Alex Mukulu an Official Burial

President Yoweri Museveni has granted veteran playwright, actor and director Alex Edward Kabangala Mukulu an official burial, with the government set to organise his final send-off on August 20, 2026.

Minister for the Presidency Milly Babalanda announced the decision on Tuesday, saying the National Organising Committee is already working with Mukulu’s family to prepare for a befitting burial.

“Dear friends, I wish to inform you that the President of the Republic of Uganda, HE Gen Kaguta Museveni, has granted an official burial to the fallen statesman, Mr Alex Edward Kabangala Mukulu,” Babalanda said.

She added that the burial will take place in Kijabijjo, Gayaza, with the National Organising Committee engaging the bereaved family to coordinate the final send-off.

Babalanda extended condolences to Mukulu’s family, friends and colleagues in the performing arts industry, describing his death as a loss to the country.

Mukulu died at the age of 72, prompting tributes from political leaders, musicians and personalities across Uganda’s creative industry.

He was one of Uganda’s most influential theatre practitioners, with a career spanning more than four decades as a playwright, actor, director and musician.

Through theatre, Mukulu explored Uganda’s political, social and cultural realities, producing notable works including 30 Years of Bananas, Wounds of Africa, The Guest of Honour, Muzukulu wa Kabangala and Journey to Self-Realisation.

His play 30 Years of Bananas, first staged in 1992 as Uganda marked 30 years of independence, became one of his most recognised productions. The play used humour, symbolism and political satire to examine Uganda’s post-independence journey.

Mukulu also contributed to major national cultural productions. His Journey to Self-Realisation was performed during the opening ceremony of the 2007 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Kampala.

Beyond his own performances and productions, Mukulu influenced a generation of Ugandan performers, with several artists crediting him with creating opportunities and helping shape their careers.

His official burial is expected to bring together family members, fellow artists, cultural leaders, government officials and members of the public to honour his lasting contribution to Uganda’s theatre and performing arts.