Katanga Told Me about Threats to his Life – Naume Nyagweso

Naume Nyangweso, Henry Katanga’s 65-year-old elder sister, testified in court that the deceased businessman had confided in her about threats to his life. Nyangweso, the ninth witness in the ongoing murder trial, described Katanga as a peaceful man entangled in a domestic abuse brawl.

On November 2, 2023, Nyangweso received a phone call from the family’s shamba boy, George Amanyiire, informing her about a fight between Katanga and his wife, Molly, in their bedroom. A subsequent call brought devastating news: Katanga had been killed. Amanyiire provided no details, only mentioning he was washing the car in the compound when the incident occurred.

Nyangweso further testified that Katanga suspected Molly of trailing his vehicle, tapping his phones, and associating with a dangerous gang. These suspicions led him to abandon his usual vehicle, acquire a new SIM card, and entrust Nyangweso with a safe containing vital documents, including land titles and business records.

“My brother, Henry Katanga, told me that Molly wanted to kill him,” Nyangweso told the court. “He said, ‘Let’s meet next Thursday with my lawyer, and I’ll explain.’ He also said, ‘If people hate you, they shouldn’t benefit from your things.'”

Following Katanga’s death, police arrested Molly Katanga, their two daughters (Martha Nkwanzi and Patricia Kakwanzi), Amanyiire, and nursing officer Charles Otai on charges of murder, evidence destruction, and being accessories to the crime.

After Nyangweso’s emotional testimony, the defense requested a list of documents contained in the safe before her cross-examination. High Court Judge Isaac Muwata adjourned the case until October 8, 2024.