Famous Ugandan Celebrity Tragically Dies In Entebbe Expressway Crash

Kampala is mourning following the sudden death of Jimmy Muhangi, a well-known emcee and praise leader, who lost his life in a tragic road accident on the Entebbe Expressway on Friday night. Jimmy, fondly known as “Papa Praise,” served as a key member of the St. Augustine Catholic Community’s worship team.

The community expressed deep sorrow over his passing, remembering his dedication and talent in leading praise and worship.

In a statement, they said, “With deep sorrow, we regret to announce the sudden death of our former community member, Mr. Jimmy, who died in a car accident. Our condolences go to his family, friends, and relatives. May his soul rest in peace.”

Beyond his spiritual contributions, Jimmy Muhangi was also a valued staff member at the British School of Kampala. The school released a note of condolence, recognizing him as an important team member and extending sympathies to his family, colleagues, and friends.

Jimmy’s death has brought renewed attention to Uganda’s ongoing road safety challenges. Just months earlier, businessman and rally driver Rajiv Ruparelia died in a fiery crash on the Kampala Southern Bypass, part of the same expressway network. Reports indicate that Ruparelia’s vehicle struck unmarked concrete barriers, highlighting the dangers posed by poorly marked roads, inadequate lighting, and lack of warning signs. Residents say these blackspots have caused numerous accidents over the years, yet little has been done to make them safer.

The tragedy has intensified calls for urgent reforms. According to the Uganda Police Annual Crime Report 2024, the country recorded 25,107 road crashes last year, claiming 5,144 lives — an average of 14 deaths per day. Vulnerable road users, including motorcyclists and pedestrians, accounted for over 80% of these fatalities.

Safety campaigners are now demanding immediate measures such as better lighting, reflective road markings, removal of dangerous barriers, and stricter enforcement of speed limits to prevent further loss of life.

Jimmy Muhangi’s death is not just a personal loss to his family, friends, and community but also a stark reminder of the dangers that persist on Uganda’s roads. As the nation mourns, the hope is that urgent steps will be taken to protect lives and prevent more tragedies in the future.