Prison Inmate Dies After Collapsing on Farm
Wolibwa was among 60 inmates sent to work at the Kata Army Farm in Bunabutye Sub-county under the supervision of prison officers. Eyewitnesses say he had been working for hours under the scorching sun with minimal rest before he collapsed around 3:00 PM.
Alex Wolibwa, also known as Magolo, a 22-year-old inmate from Mutufu Government Prison in Sironko District, collapsed and died on Wednesday while being rushed for treatment after fainting while working on a farm in Bulambuli District.
Wolibwa was among 60 inmates sent to work at the Kata Army Farm in Bunabutye Sub-county under the supervision of prison officers. Eyewitnesses say he had been working for hours under the scorching sun with minimal rest before he collapsed around 3:00 PM.
Despite efforts to take him to Muyembe Health Centre IV, Wolibwa died en route. He had been serving time for cattle theft. Elgon Region Police spokesperson Rogers Taitika confirmed the incident, describing it as a “sudden death,” and noted that investigations are ongoing. The body was transferred to Mbale City Mortuary for a postmortem.
However, human rights advocates argue that Wolibwa’s death was far from sudden. “Prisoners are being worked to the bone,” said a former inmate who requested anonymity. “We dig all day, eat once if we’re lucky, and never see any pay. The officers profit while we suffer.”
Sources allege that inmates are routinely used as free labor on both government and private farms, with proceeds allegedly pocketed by prison officials. Inmates reportedly endure overcrowding, inadequate medical care, and severe malnutrition, worsening their vulnerability.
“They treat us worse than animals,” said another inmate through a relative who had come to visit. “If you collapse, they might not even help—you’re just called lazy.” While Taitika said “relevant statements have been recorded,” activists are calling for more than procedural formalities—they want accountability.
“Alex Wolibwa’s death was preventable,” said a local rights defender. “How many more must die before Uganda stops treating prisoners like slaves?”
