The Kampala teen vendors murder case is heading to the High Court after two teenage girls allegedly stabbed a 24-year-old woman during a fight over a Shs5,000 debt. The violent confrontation occurred near Hanifa Towers on Luwum Street in downtown Kampala.
The suspects, aged 14 and 15, live in Banda B1 Zone, Nakawa Division. According to court documents, the girls confronted Kanifa Natukunda at around 10 p.m., demanding repayment of money they lent the previous day. A heated argument broke out, and Natukunda reportedly slapped one of them.
One of the girls ran to a nearby stall, grabbed a knife, and stabbed Natukunda in the abdomen. They then fled. Bystanders rushed Natukunda to Naguru Hospital, where doctors treated and discharged her on April 20. Before her health worsened, she told a friend that the dispute had stemmed from the debt.
Her condition rapidly declined. She died five days later. A post-mortem examination at Mulago Hospital revealed a two-centimeter abdominal stab wound that penetrated all layers. The report stated she died from peritonitis caused by the wound.
The Kampala teen vendors murder case appeared before the Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) submitted key evidence, including medical reports, suspect exams, and a crime scene sketch. State prosecutor Ivan Kyazze argued that the girls acted with intent and had no legal justification for their actions.
Both girls denied the accusations. Despite their plea, the court committed the case to the High Court for full trial. Prosecutors believe the act was retaliatory and deliberate.
The Kampala teen vendors murder trial raises wider questions about juvenile justice and violence among Kampala’s street vendors. Legal experts note that if the court convicts the girls, they could serve time in a juvenile rehabilitation center under Uganda’s child justice laws.
This case highlights rising violence among Kampala’s youth, especially in informal street markets where conflict often goes unchecked. Advocates urge the government to strengthen social protection systems to help vulnerable children avoid crime and resolve disputes peacefully.
