The Health Minister, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, disclosed that the late Cecilia Ogwal, former Dokolo district woman MP, had urged the government to install a specialized cancer testing machine at Mulago Hospital’s cancer institute before seeking treatment in India. Ogwal, who succumbed to cancer at the age of 77 in India, believed that the installation of a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) machine at the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) would mitigate health tourism.
During the vigil held at Bugolobi in Kampala on Friday, Dr. Aceng shared Ogwal’s wish with mourners, expressing hope that her desire would be fulfilled. PET scans are instrumental in tracing or identifying signs of cancer, heart disease, and brain disorders.
Key Details of Cecilia Ogwal’s Funeral Programme
| Date | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday | Arrival of Ogwal’s remains in Uganda | Country Arrival (2:00pm) |
| Monday | Special Parliament sitting for lawmakers to pay tribute | Parliament |
| Saturday (Next) | Official burial ceremony with President Museveni in attendance | Designated Location (January 27) |
The late MP’s call for a PET scan installation at Mulago Hospital aligns with her vision to address health concerns domestically and curb the trend of health tourism. As a powerful tool for cancer detection, the PET machine could contribute significantly to the enhancement of medical facilities at the Uganda Cancer Institute.
Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, announced the funeral program, specifying a special Parliament sitting on Monday for lawmakers to pay their respects to Ogwal. The Minister for Presidency, Milly Babalanda, confirmed President Yoweri Museveni’s attendance at the special sitting.
In adherence to the tentative funeral program, Ogwal, granted an official burial by President Museveni, is set to be laid to rest on Saturday next week, January 27.
