A 34-year-old woman, Stella Namwanje, has been sentenced to 35 years in prison after feeding her neighbor’s 10-month-old baby human feces and urine.
The incident occurred in Masaka City on November 4, and was captured on video, which quickly went viral and alarmed local residents.
Prosecutor George Kalinaki explained that Namwanje, a resident of Binyonyi A in Nyendo-Mukungwe Division, was seen on the video feeding the infant with waste. The disturbing footage prompted neighbors to contact authorities, leading to Namwanje’s arrest.
Further investigations revealed that the baby had a healing wound on his left eye, indicating prior physical abuse. A medical examination also showed the child had suffered trauma. Additionally, it was reported that Namwanje tested positive for HIV.
During the trial, Namwanje pleaded guilty to the charges and expressed remorse, admitting she did not understand what had driven her to commit such an act.
In his verdict, Masaka Chief Magistrate Aloysius Natwijuka condemned Namwanje’s actions as “grave and barbaric,” stressing that her behavior was a serious threat to the welfare of children. He called for harsh punishment to serve as a deterrent, while also acknowledging that Namwanje was a first-time offender who showed remorse.
Despite her plea for forgiveness, Natwijuka concluded that a severe sentence was necessary to protect society and ensure justice for the child.
The court sentenced Namwanje to 35 years in prison, with the hope that she might be reconsidered for rehabilitation after serving her term.
