President Yoweri Museveni has called on Ugandans to step up the fight against cancer and other preventable diseases as the country continues to mourn the death of the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV.
The message was delivered by Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa on behalf of President Museveni. Tayebwa said the President used the occasion of mourning the late King Oyo to remind Ugandans about the need to take stronger action against diseases that can be prevented.
According to the President’s message, Uganda should launch an “all-out war” against cancer and other preventable diseases. Museveni stressed that many illnesses can be avoided through better health practices, early detection, proper treatment and increased awareness.
The President said about 80 percent of diseases are preventable, including cancer. His message comes at a time when the death of King Oyo has renewed public attention on the devastating impact of serious illnesses and the importance of timely medical care.
The call also serves as a reminder to Ugandans to take their health seriously instead of waiting until diseases become severe. Regular medical check-ups, early diagnosis, healthy lifestyles and seeking medical attention when symptoms appear can play an important role in preventing or reducing the impact of many illnesses.
Tayebwa delivered the message as leaders, cultural institutions and members of the public gathered to mourn the late Omukama. King Oyo’s death has been met with grief across Uganda, particularly in Tooro, where he served as the cultural leader of the kingdom for many years.
Museveni’s message therefore linked the mourning of the late King to a wider national responsibility to protect lives. The President urged Ugandans to turn the painful experience of losing a prominent national figure into renewed determination to fight diseases that continue to affect families across the country.
The call is expected to strengthen discussions about cancer prevention, early screening and access to healthcare. As Uganda mourns King Oyo, the message from the President is that protecting lives should remain a shared responsibility and that more effort must be put into preventing diseases before they become deadly.
