Leaders in Mukono Municipality have appealed to the government to strengthen the supply of medicine for sickle cell disease in all health facilities, saying the move is urgent and necessary to save lives.
The call was made by the Mukono Municipal Council Speaker, Dorah Nakaddu Nsubuga, during a special council meeting held at the Mayor’s Gardens to honour the late Charles Wakibugu, the councillor representing Gwafu Central, Gwaffu West and Ntinda zone, Wakibugu, who served under the National Unity Platform (NUP) for Seeta Ward, died early Tuesday morning at Mukono General Hospital after a long battle with sickle cell disease. He was 36.
Nakaddu urged the government to prioritise a consistent supply of essential sickle cell medication, noting that many lives remain at risk due to drug shortages. She further appealed for mandatory sickle-cell testing, saying it would help citizens understand their health status early enough to seek treatment or make informed decisions.
Her concerns were echoed by Humphery Kyassa, Chairperson of Goma Division, who emphasised that while sickle cell disease is a major concern, other illnesses also go unnoticed in some health centres due to inconsistent medical supplies. Kyassa criticised the practice of sending drugs that are not required, saying medicines often expire unused at Goma Health Centre IV. He urged the government to consult health facility leaders before distributing drugs so that supplies reflect actual needs.
The Town Clerk, Richard Byabagabi, hailed the late Wakibugu as a committed public servant whose work strengthened ties between the council and the community. He described him as a patriotic leader who continued to serve diligently despite constant illness.
Representing the Deputy Resident District Commissioner’s office, Godfery Mwogeza praised Wakibugu’s dedication and advised residents to remain vigilant and keep roads safe and orderly in honour of his legacy.
Councillor Kasozi, Chairperson of the Works Committee where Wakibugu served, described the deceased as principled, approachable, and steadfast in advocating for what benefited his community.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Carol Mugalu, Deputy Chairperson of Goma Division and a close family friend, said Wakibugu’s death had robbed them of a pillar—someone who unified the family and offered unwavering support. She thanked municipal leaders, councillors, and medical staff for standing by the family throughout his illness.
Other leaders, led by Tonny Bwanika, Speaker of Goma Division Council, praised Wakibugu as a devoted community leader and a proud supporter of the Buganda Kingdom who always championed its development.
Wakibugu will be laid to rest at Nabuta, Goma Division, Mukono Municipality. Wakibugu is survived by two children.
