Dark clouds loomed over Rubaga Cathedral as mourners gathered to bid a final farewell to Alex Kayanja Ssekandi, the son of former Ugandan Vice President Edward Ssekandi. Alex, aged 39, passed away at Lubaga hospital after a two-week battle with illness.
The service commenced with a heartfelt eulogy from the widow, Diana Kayanja. She described her late husband as her confidant, expressing regret for the unfulfilled promises between them. She also emphasized Alex’s dedication to family, friends, and work, highlighting his warm smile and boundless kindness.
Pancreatic cancer, attributed to alcohol addiction, claimed Alex’s life, as stated by his family. His siblings shared cherished memories, mourning the loss of a gifted and amiable brother. They called on the Ugandan government to establish Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) programs to aid those struggling with addiction.
Rt. Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda, a government representative, offered condolences on behalf of the nation, acknowledging the loss of a significant asset for both the family and the country. He supported the call for addiction support facilities and emphasized the importance of assistance for those battling addiction.
Alcohol Abuse in Uganda
Alcohol abuse is prevalent in Uganda, with formal sector breweries producing 37% of alcohol and domestically produced spirits contributing 63%, mostly unregulated and unrecorded. The World Health Organization (WHO) representative in Uganda, Dr. Yonas Tegegn Woldemariam, warned about the adverse effects of alcohol on health, including injuries, mental health issues, and diseases like cancer and stroke. He urged the Ugandan government to strengthen alcohol restrictions and facilitate access to screening and treatment.
During a recent workshop in Kampala, Dr. Hafisa Kasule, a WHO Technical Officer for Non-Communicable Diseases, revealed that Ugandans consume over 12 liters of pure alcohol per capita each year. Notably, less than 50% of the population consumes alcohol, signifying that those who do, drink excessively, necessitating immediate action.
