In a rare and controversial move, an 80-year-old man in Kikuube District has built his own modern grave, complete with a house and solar lighting, to ensure what he calls a “decent and comfortable” resting place when he dies.
Vianny Kanani, a respected elder in Rwemparaki village, Bunyoro sub-region, says he spent over Shs10 million constructing the grave after witnessing what he described as “shameful and painful” burials in his community.
He fears being buried “badly” despite his wealth and years of hard work.
“I once attended a burial where it rained heavily and the body was buried in water,” Kanani said. “I told myself I cannot live a good life on earth and then be buried in soil and darkness while others enjoy my wealth.”
Kanani, who has two wives, 18 children, and more than 200 grandchildren, said he began construction two years ago after discussing the idea with his family — who initially objected, calling it untraditional.
Undeterred, he began digging and building what is now regarded locally as a “tourist attraction.”
The grave structure, now nearly complete, has cost him about Shs8 million so far, with another Shs4 million needed to finish.
It features tiled walls, solar-powered lights inside and outside, and a small house built above the burial chamber.
Kanani has also opened a PostBank savings account to fund his funeral arrangements, saying he does not want mourners to fundraise for his burial.
“So far, I have saved Shs2 million and continue depositing every month,” he said. “My son knows where my will and ATM card are, and he will handle everything when I die.”
He insists no one should cry when he dies. “I have lived enough,” he said. “When I die, let people slaughter cows, play music for two days, and celebrate that I have gone to rest. I will be watching from my grave.”
His son, Emmanuel Katete, explained that their father’s decision stemmed from religious differences among family members.
“Most of us changed faith to other religions that don’t allow cemented graves, but our father, a staunch Catholic, wanted a modern grave and decided to build it himself,” Katete said.
Kanani’s wives, Joyce Bampire and Goret Wembabazi, said they initially resisted the idea but eventually accepted it.
“At first, we thought it was madness, but we got used to it. He’s serious about it, and we respect his wishes,” said Bampire.
Local residents say Kanani’s grave has turned his home into a popular attraction. “People visit to see it because it’s unusual,” said Jane Birungi, one of the villagers. “He is respected here and is even nicknamed ‘the mayor’ of Rwemparaki because of his development ideas.”
Herbert Kugonza, a local leader, described Kanani as a wise and respected elder often consulted on community issues.
“He always says that when he dies, people should not contribute money but simply come, bury him, and celebrate for two days,” Kugonza said.
Despite its unconventional nature, Kanani’s project has sparked fascination and debate across Kikuube. Some view it as vanity, others as foresight — but to him, it’s simply a matter of dignity and peace of mind.