Uganda has registered a worrying rise in murders linked to domestic violence, according to the 2025 Annual Crime Report released by Police.
The report indicates that 208 people were killed as a result of domestic violence in 2025, up from 183 cases recorded in 2024, representing a 13.7% increase.
Police described the deaths as a result of aggravated domestic violence, highlighting a growing crisis within households.
Of the 208 victims, 92 were female adults, slightly higher than the 89 male adults killed.
The report also shows that 27 juveniles lost their lives, including 14 boys and 13 girls, underscoring the vulnerability of children in violent domestic environments.
The North Kyoga region recorded the highest number of domestic violence-related murders at 28 cases, followed by Rwizi (19 cases), Rwenzori West (16), and Aswa East (15). Other regions with notable figures include Wamala, Aswa West, and Savannah, reflecting that the problem cuts across multiple parts of the country.
At the district level, Mubende, Kyenjojo, and Oyam each registered the highest number of cases at 10 deaths each. These were followed by Kayunga (8 cases) and Isingiro (7 cases).
Several other districts, including Bugiri, Kisoro, Nakaseke, and Buhweju, each recorded six cases, while Kitgum and Pader registered five cases apiece.
Police also noted emerging hotspots such as Kakiri and Mbarara City North, which each recorded four cases despite not having reported such incidents in previous years.
The steady rise in domestic violence-related killings has raised concern among law enforcement authorities, with the report pointing to persistent family conflicts, economic stress, and unresolved disputes as some of the contributing factors.
The findings highlight an urgent need for strengthened community interventions, awareness campaigns, and support systems to address domestic violence before it escalates into fatal outcomes.
