He was a Muganda of the edible-rat (Tryonomys Swinderenianus – Musu) clan born at Kigolooba in Bulemeezi County. His father was Kajjansi and his mother was Nsoga, a Musoga. His parents migrated to Bunono (Nkumba) in Busiro County.

Ssebuggwawo served as a page in King Mwanga’s Palace. He was talented and devoted musician with melodious voice.

Denis fought hard against the shameful sexual plays he was induced to by King Mwanga and this quickened his martyrdom. Ssebuggwawo was zealous, devoted to his work and through young, a very strong catholic.

Ssebuggwawo was the first victim of King Mwanga’s rage in the evening of 25^th May 1886. He was severely scourged by the King Himself, but was killed the following morning at Munyonyo on 26^th May 1886 at the age of 16.

Denis was zealous from Christian faith and renowned for his modesty. St Denis Ssebugwawo is the patron of singers, musicians and choirs.