Mbalala, Mukono District A tragic incident has occurred at Sena Factory, a Chinese-owned paper manufacturing company located in Kasenge Village, Mbalala Nama Sub-county, Mukono District. Gerald Mukisa Waswa, a 19-year-old who had just completed his Senior Four exams, lost his life in a horrific accident involving a paper-cutting machine at the factory.
Mukisa, a resident of Wataayi Village in Namataba Town Council, was reportedly working at the factory to raise money for his Senior Five education. The accident occurred when the machine he was operating malfunctioned, fatally injuring him. The machine reportedly crushed his head, leading to his immediate death.
Mukisa’s mother, Annet Nakachwa, and father, Barnabas Mukwaaya, visited the factory to seek assistance for their son’s burial. However, they were met with resistance from the factory management, who initially offered only 400,000 shillings instead of the 700,000 shillings requested by the family. After persistent negotiations, the family eventually received 680,000 shillings to cover funeral expenses.
Douglas Namujali, the Mayor of Namataba Town Council, expressed his dismay at the factory’s handling of the situation. He criticized the management for their lack of empathy and failure to provide adequate safety measures for workers. Namujali pledged to support the family in their quest for justice and called for an investigation into the factory’s operations.
Hajji Asuman Muwumuza, the Vice Chairperson of Mukono District, also condemned the incident, urging the government to intervene and ensure that such tragedies are prevented in the future. He emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of labor laws and better working conditions in factories across the district.
The family, accompanied by local leaders, sought assistance from the Mukono District Police Commander, SSP Benard Mugerwa. A police vehicle was provided to transport Mukisa’s body to Mulago National Referral Hospital for a postmortem examination.
The factory management, led by Wanji Kai, initially resisted allowing the family and media access to the premises. However, after prolonged negotiations, they agreed to contribute to the funeral expenses. Despite this, the family and community members remain dissatisfied with the factory’s overall response and handling of the incident.
Local leaders and residents have called on the government to investigate the factory’s operations and ensure that workers’ rights are protected. They highlighted the poor working conditions and lack of safety measures, which have reportedly led to similar incidents in the past.
Gerald Mukisa Waswa was laid to rest in Nazigoti, Mityana District. His death has left a deep void in his family and community, as he was a bright student with dreams of continuing his education.
This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for improved labor conditions and stricter enforcement of safety regulations in factories across Uganda. As the community mourns Mukisa’s loss, calls for justice and accountability continue to grow louder.
