KAMPALA — Prominent Ugandan public figure, Dr. Hajjat Kulthum Nabunya Muzzata, has publicly announced her separation from her husband Amir Gumisiriza, bringing an end to their nearly three-year marriage. 

In a heartfelt open letter addressed to the Muslim community, religious leaders, cultural leaders, political leaders, business community, friends, and family, Dr. Kulthum explained that the decision to end the marriage came after deep reflection, soul-searching, and several unsuccessful attempts to resolve underlying differences.

“This is one of the hardest letters I’ve ever had to write, but I believe it’s time to speak from the bottom of my heart and put into words what I’ve been carrying inside for a long while,” Dr. Kulthum stated. The couple married officially in 2022 after Kulthum lost her first husband, the late Sheikh Nuhu Muzaata, a highly respected Islamic cleric. 

She explained that after grieving her late husband, she sought companionship, eventually marrying Mr. Gumisiriza in hopes of moving forward with life. However, in her message, Dr. Kulthum acknowledged that despite both their efforts, the marriage could not be sustained. She emphasized that the decision to separate was not made impulsively but after careful consideration of their evolving realities. 

“We have come to accept that the connection we once shared now feels like something we’re only trying to hold together out of habit, not out of harmony,” she wrote.

“I hope we can part ways with grace, preserving the dignity of what we had.” In her letter, Dr. Kulthum made it clear that the separation is not about assigning blame but rather recognizing that they are no longer compatible as partners. 

She also acknowledged the sacred nature of marriage in both personal and religious contexts but emphasized that holding on would only deepen the pain for both of them.

Dr. Kulthum expressed her gratitude to those who supported them throughout their marriage and apologized to well-wishers who had hoped for a lasting union.

She extended special appreciation to Sheikh Abdul Rahman Sserunjogi and her family for their guidance and support during the difficult decision-making process.

“I truly hope that in time, we can both find peace and happiness on our own separate paths. Though this chapter ‘Marriage’ has ended, I will always value the moments we shared and the lessons we’ve learned. I wish you well in everything ahead,” she concluded.

The separation announcement has drawn widespread attention, particularly within Uganda’s Muslim community, where Dr. Kulthum and the late Sheikh Muzaata remain respected figures.

Dr. Muzzata’s announcement comes in a period of sharply rising divorce rates in Uganda.

The number of formal divorce filings at the High Court’s Family Division more than doubled between 2023 and 2024—rising from 215 to 503 cases.

According to a 2020 HiiL report, roughly 370,000 Ugandans experience divorce or separation annually—equivalent to 7% of adults every four years.

Regionally, Uganda ranks among the top 10 African nations with the highest percentage of first unions ending in divorce, particularly among young couples aged 15–19.