Rédaction Africa Links 24 with EMMY DANIEL OJARA
Published on 2024-02-02 12:15:04
A 12-year-old boy from Hilltop Cell, Pandwong Division, Kitgum Municipality, is desperately seeking government assistance after losing his right hand to what is believed to be an abandoned teargas canister. Marvin Oriba, a Primary Four pupil at Pandwong Primary School, found the canister near his home and, while playing with three other children, treated the explosive as a toy, triggering an explosion when he removed the pin.
The blast shattered his right hand, causing injuries to other parts of his body, including his thighs and stomach, and leaving him bleeding profusely. He was taken to Kitgum General Hospital with only two fingers dangling. His mother, Ms. Christine Apiyo, and sister Flavia Lamaro, are still in shock and unable to support the boy’s medical bill and future care after he is discharged.
Oriba’s father, Mr. Churchill Onencan, appealed to the government to provide an artificial arm, cover medical expenses, educate him, and compensate the family for the damages and trauma endured. Dr. Geoffrey Akena, the Kitgum General Hospital acting Medical Superintendent, confirmed that amputating the right hand from the wrist was a necessary life-saving measure to prevent further damage.
Mr. Alex Odongtoo, the former mayor of Kitgum Town, mentioned that police vehicles had been frequenting the area, suggesting that the explosives might have inadvertently fallen from them. When contacted, the Kitgum District Police Commander, Mr. Peter Oyesige, confirmed that the matter is under investigation.
This incident is not isolated. In February 2021, a blast from an explosive device believed to be a hand grenade killed two people and injured two others in Adjumani. In July 2022, a student in Kibuku lost his arm after a teargas canister exploded. These cases highlight the need for better regulation and control of explosives, as well as the importance of government support for victims of such incidents.
The family is currently struggling with medical bills and emotional trauma, and they are in desperate need of assistance. It is crucial for the government to step in and provide the necessary support and compensation to help Oriba and his family through this difficult time. Additionally, measures should be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future and hold accountable those responsible for the abandoned explosives in the community.
In conclusion, the story of Marvin Oriba highlights the devastating consequences of mishandled explosives and the urgent need for government assistance for victims of such incidents. It is essential for the government to step in and provide the necessary support and compensation to help Oriba and his family through this difficult time, as well as to take measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Read the original article on Uganda Monitor
