Kibuku, (UG):- Over 80 residents of Kiyalyo and Kitantalo Wards in Tirinyi Town Council – Kibuku District are undergoing intensive treatment following a suspected food poisoning incident linked to locally prepared banana juice.
According to preliminary findings, it is alleged that the incident unfolded on Friday, December 20 when Munyagwe Jacob, a resident of Kiyalyo III, prepared the juice, known locally as Mubiisi, intending to sell it for the festive season.
After sampling the juice himself, Munyagwe sent his children out to sell the remaining portions, and support from the community poured with many residents buying the juice for consumption.
However, reports of illness began to surface the following day as residents who consumed the juice suffered severe stomach pains and diarrhea including Munyagwe himself.
“I initially thought it was just a mild stomachache,” Munyagwe recalled. “But after three days, I was rushed to Magada Health Centre III, where I was diagnosed and placed on intensive treatment. I’m feeling a bit better now, but I lost a lot of water due to diarrhea.”
Pastor Kitali Moses of New Destiny Church in Kitantalo shared his experience, noting that he initially dismissed his symptoms. Upon realizing that his neighbors were also affected, he sought help at Kibuku Health Facility, where he too was diagnosed with food poisoning.
In conversations with many residents, stories emerged of people who initially ignored their symptoms, only to face severe health issues later.
The National Unity Platform Chairperson in Tirinyi TC, Mr Madauti Siraji, expressed his alarm over the incident. “This is a sad moment for my people. I learned of this harrowing incident and had to respond quickly. I urge those in charge to come and assist my community,” he stated.
Nampenda Wilberforce, the Chairperson LC II of Kiyalyo Ward, conveyed his shock at the news. “I keep wondering how I would attend burial ceremonies for over 80 people,” he said. “Thank God no one has been pronounced dead yet, but the situation is dire.” He added that upon visiting the juice manufacturer, he found Munyagwe bedridden due to the same ailment.
As the community is left grappling with unanswered questions, speculation is rife regarding the cause of the poisoning, with some wondering if it stemmed from poor health conditions or if someone maliciously tampered with the juice.
Local authorities and health officials urged residents to act promptly to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected residents.
According to the Government Analytical Laboratory, between January and September of this year, there were 967 reported poisoning cases across the country, with Kibuku among the districts experiencing some of the highest rates.
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