Pastor Aloysius Bugingo has publicly expressed gratitude to his estranged wife, Teddy Naluswa, and their daughter, Doreen Gift Bugingo, after they attended the burial of his late father in Kigali, Rwanda. Their presence at the October 18, 2026, funeral attracted attention, bringing renewed focus to a family relationship that has experienced years of disagreements and separation.
Speaking during the burial ceremony, Bugingo acknowledged Doreen’s decision to attend and revealed that she had contacted him shortly after learning about her grandfather’s death. He added that the two had also spoken on the telephone on the day of the burial, suggesting that communication between them had continued despite the challenges in their relationship.
The pastor used the occasion to remind his daughter about the importance of family ties, expressing appreciation for her presence during a difficult moment. He emphasised that biological family connections remain meaningful regardless of a person’s circumstances, wealth or social position, telling Doreen that family remains family even when relationships become strained.
However, Doreen appeared surprised that her decision to attend the burial had attracted so much public attention. She explained that she had come to pay her final respects to her grandfather and saw no reason why her presence should be treated as unusual. She also confirmed that her mother, Teddy Naluswa, had attended the ceremony.
The deceased, Mzee Aloyzi Bujjingo, passed away on October 15, 2026, at the age of 108. He was laid to rest at Rusororo Cemetery in Kigali, where relatives and other mourners gathered to honour his life. The burial provided an opportunity for members of the family to come together despite the differences that have existed among them.
Bugingo’s marriage to Teddy Naluswa broke down nearly a decade ago, with disagreements between the former couple eventually affecting relationships within the family. In 2019, Bugingo accused Naluswa and Doreen of attempting to take control of church property, allegations that Naluswa disputed. She maintained that the marriage had deteriorated because Bugingo wanted to leave her for another woman. The pastor later pursued a divorce and began a relationship with Susan Makula.
The strained family relationship also became a subject of public discussion when Bugingo addressed his children during a church service in March 2023. At the time, he said he had forgiven them and wanted them to visit him, adding that they were free to call or send him messages. Doreen subsequently explained that she and her father had maintained communication through trusted people who were respected by both sides.
The attendance of Teddy and Doreen at the burial has now brought fresh attention to the family’s relationship, although it does not necessarily mean that all their past disagreements have been resolved. Bugingo’s public appreciation for his daughter and the family’s decision to attend the funeral have nevertheless highlighted the importance of family connections during moments of loss, even when relationships have been difficult for years.
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