Almost a year after her video went viral on social media — “I came using fuutu” — Jessica Nabukeera has expressed deep gratitude for making a pilgrimage to Namugongo, saying it profoundly changed her life for the better.
Speaking in an interview on NBS TV, Nabukeera shared that 2024 was her first time visiting Namugongo. She recalled how she spontaneously joined a group of pilgrims walking from the Masaka Diocese to Namugongo.
“I came to Namugongo to pray to God to heal me and change my life so that I could be able to look after my parents and siblings,” Nabukeera said.
Following her pilgrimage, Nabukeera — who had become a viral sensation for her “I came on fuutu” interview — found herself stranded in Kampala. She had no money for transport, knew no one in the city, and was also battling mental health issues.
Mama Glow, who is now Nabukeera’s caretaker, recounted how she found her sleeping on the streets of Kajjansi while passersby took photos and videos.
“When I found her, I had no idea there was a viral video about her. I just wanted to help a stranger,” she said.
Mama Glow revealed that taking Nabukeera in came with many challenges, especially from her own family due to Nabukeera’s mental health condition.
“My mother was against my decision to bring her home. But I couldn’t chase her away. She received treatment for about six months and eventually recovered,” Mama Glow explained.
She went on to teach Nabukeera various skills before bringing her to the beauty parlor in Makindye where she now works.
“At first, I lost many customers who said they couldn’t be near a ‘mad’ person. But I insisted on keeping her and continued teaching her,” said Mama Glow.
“She’s now really good at hairdressing and mixing cosmetics,” she added proudly.
Nabukeera said she is looking forward to returning to Namugongo next week to thank God for all He has done for her. She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to Mama Glow for taking a chance on her.
