The diplomatic fraternity has been rocked by heartbreaking news of the passing of Robert “Bobby” Kabonero, son of renowned Ugandan diplomat Ambassador Richard Kabonero who died on Friday following a devastating suicide attempt.
The 24-year-old passed away on Friday, May 9, at Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi after spending three agonizing months on life support.
Bobby reportedly shot himself in the neck and chest using his father’s firearm in what sources close to the family describe as a cry for help that went unheard.
Bobby, who was raised in the United States, had reportedly been going through a difficult time after being brought back to Uganda.
Reports suggest he wished to remain in the U.S. with his mother, but was instead returned to Uganda under the care of his father, a senior Ugandan diplomat who has served as ambassador to both Rwanda and Tanzania.
After arriving in Uganda, Bobby is said to have expressed emotional distress, reaching out to family members and making alarming statements about his mental state.
The tragic incident has since drawn attention to issues surrounding mental health, gun access, and the emotional impact of family disputes.
Friends and loved ones describe Bobby as a young man with great potential, whose life was sadly cut short.
His death leaves a painful void in both his family and the country at large.
