FORTPOTAL
The medical fraternity in Fort Portal is in mourning following the tragic death of Ronald Olwedo, a theatre assistant at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital (FRRH), who reportedly took his own life after enduring five months without pay.
Olwedo, who was recently transferred from Gulu Regional Referral Hospital during a nationwide reshuffle, had been working at FRRH since his relocation, leaving his family behind in Gulu. Despite repeated appeals to hospital administration regarding his unpaid salary, colleagues say his pleas were met with unfulfilled promises.
A close workmate, who requested anonymity, revealed that Olwedo had posted several messages in the hospital’s official WhatsApp group, expressing distress over his financial situation. “He was struggling to support himself and his family. The lack of salary pushed him into depression and alcohol abuse,” the colleague said.
Olwedo was last seen on duty on 14th August. His disappearance was reported to police days later. On August 21st, his body was discovered floating in River Mpanga, approximately 67 meters from the Fort Portal–Kampala highway, near Booma Stadium and Fort Portal Police Barracks.
Rwenzori West Police spokesperson Vincent Twesigye confirmed the discovery, stating that the body showed signs of prolonged immersion, including hair loss, swollen genitalia, and a distended abdomen.
Hospital Administrator Beatrice Batamuriza acknowledged the tragedy, confirming Olwedo’s last appearance at work and the subsequent search efforts. “It’s a heartbreaking loss. We had reported his disappearance, but never imagined it would end this way,” she said.
Health workers at FRRH expressed deep sorrow and frustration over the incident. “Ronald’s death could have been prevented. Delayed salary payments and the emotional toll of working far from home, compounded by language barriers, contributed to his suffering,” one staff member lamented.
The incident has sparked renewed calls for accountability and timely remuneration for health workers, especially those affected by transfers. As investigations continue, colleagues and family members are left grappling with the loss of a dedicated professional whose life ended far too soon.
