Pallisa, Uganda | Thousands of mourners from across Uganda on Sunday converged at Okudelia Cell in Pallisa Town Council to bid farewell to UPDF Staff Sergeant Stephen Okwana, whose death has left family, friends and colleagues in shock.
The 59-year-old soldier succumbed to prostate cancer on June 25, 2026 — a date that carried a remarkable coincidence, as it was also the exact day he was born in 1967.
Emotions ran high during the burial ceremony as family members narrated Okwana’s final days, revealing that the veteran soldier had spent his last evening joyfully watching the final English Premier League matches before his sudden death the following day.
“We all watched the Premier League games together on Sunday and he was in high spirits. We never imagined that by the next day he would be gone. It is even harder to believe because he died on the exact date he was born,” said his brother, Lawrence Ojinga.
Ojinga thanked the thousands of mourners who stood with the family throughout the difficult period, describing the overwhelming turnout as a testament to the love and respect Okwana commanded in the community.
“People camped here for 14 days, leaving behind their work and personal activities to comfort our family, especially as we waited for the body to be released from Bombo. The support we received has been extraordinary,” he said.
He used the occasion to raise awareness about prostate cancer, urging men to embrace routine medical screening and seek treatment early whenever health concerns arise.
“My brother fought prostate cancer courageously. Men should not fear going for medical check-ups because early diagnosis can save lives,” Ojinga said.
According to family members, Okwana passed away peacefully in his sleep and did not experience prolonged suffering during his final moments.
“He simply slept off and went to be with the Lord. Before his death, he had accepted Jesus Christ as his personal saviour, and we believe he is resting peacefully with God,” Ojinga added.
The deceased leaves behind nine children and a large extended family.
The family also acknowledged contributions from friends, relatives and well-wishers who supported funeral arrangements. Particular appreciation was extended to members of the Pallisa Metropolitan WhatsApp Group, who contributed sh2.984 million towards burial expenses.
Speaking at the funeral, former Pallisa District Woman MP Hon. Kevin Kaala Ojinga praised the family for maintaining unity despite having children from different mothers.
“I have spent 19 years in this family, and it was only recently that I learned Okwana had a different biological mother. My mother-in-law loved and treated all her children equally. That is a lesson many families can learn from,” she said.
Kaala further appealed to political leaders and supporters in Pallisa to set aside political rivalries and work together for the district’s development.
Representing the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, Major Gerald Birigwa conveyed condolences from the military establishment and commended President Yoweri Museveni for instituting a dignified burial programme for serving UPDF officers regardless of rank.
Birigwa encouraged the family to organize and follow up on the deceased’s benefits, noting that Okwana still had about 14 years remaining before reaching retirement age.
He described the fallen soldier as a disciplined officer who served his country with dedication and honour.
As the bugle sounded and military honours were accorded to the fallen officer, mourners reflected on a life that touched many people — a life that ended just hours after enjoying a football evening with loved ones, leaving behind memories that will endure for generations.
