Kwania, Uganda – The late Dr. Joshua Luka Olet, a respected medical professional, was laid to rest on Wednesday March 5, 2025, at his ancestral home in Awaldek Village, Aornga Parish, Nambieso Sub-County, Kwania District, in a burial attended by a multitude of mourners, including dignitaries, political leaders, medical practitioners, and business figures.
Born on July 6, 1984, to the late Richard Olet Elyak and Imat Rose Olet Elyak, Dr. Joshua Luka Olet pursued a distinguished academic journey.
He attended St. Kizito Nursery & Primary School, VH Primary School (for two years), Nkumba Primary School (1993–1998), Busoga College Mwiri (1999–2003), Kako S.S – Masaka (2004–2005), Ntinda View Lugazi Campus (2006), and later Sumi University in Ukraine (2007–2012) where he earned his medical degree.
He completed his medical internship at Mulago Referral Hospital (2013–2014) before working at Lira Regional Referral Hospital (LRRH) in the TB section (2015–2016) and later with USAID in the HIV Department (2016–2024).
Dr. Joshua Luka Olet was diagnosed with throat cancer, leading to extensive medical treatment, including surgeries and periodic reviews in Turkey.
Despite his resilience, his condition deteriorated in January 2025, ultimately leading to his passing.
During the burial, Dr. Caroline Achola called for awareness about cancer, stressing that it is a disease, not witchcraft.
She urged communities to prioritize medical checkups and avoid exposure to smoke.
His widow, Sandra Akullu Luka, expressed gratitude to all who supported Joshua’s medical journey, emphasizing the pain he endured.
“Joshua was very strong, even at the last moment. He fought hard and I know he has rested from the too much pain. I thank everyone who tried tirelessly to save his life; he knew how much he was loved. Joshua, you fought a good fight. I loved you and I’ll still love you! I’ll take care of the kids… May Your Soul Rest in Peace!”
His mother, Imat Rose Olet Elyak, commended Sandra for her unwavering support, reassuring her of the family’s continued presence in her life.
“Sandra, I thank you for standing with Joshua until the last moment. We shall not abandon you in any way—you are part of this family. My heart is too low, but I thank everyone who supported us when Joshua was sick until he breathed his last.”
Dr. Luka Olet’s burial attracted a large number of dignitaries, demonstrating the respect he commanded.
Among those in attendance were: Hon. Betty Engola (Woman MP – Apac District), Hon. Tonny Ayo (MP – Kwania District), Margaret Ateng Atim (Former MP), Emma Okite (Lira University Dean of Students), Alex Ogwal Adyebo (Kwania LCV Chairperson), Ambrose Awany (Kole LCV Chairperson), Sam Atul (Mayor – Lira City), Mike Ogwang Olwa Veve (Former Mayor – Lira Municipality), Presidential Advisors Sam Engola and Francis Okello Opio, Bishops Emeritus John Charles Odur Kami and Alfred Acur Okodi, among others.
Members of the business community, civil servants, cultural leaders, and medical professionals also attended in large numbers.
A somber moment unfolded as Sandra Akullu Luka and Imat Rose Olet Elyak led the family in laying wreaths on Dr. Luka Olet’s casket, followed by in-laws, family friends, colleagues, and other mourners.
Emotional scenes emerged as the family took a final glance at his body.
Delivering a message of comfort, Rev. Fr. Augustine Odongo (Abuli Parish Priest) urged mourners to uphold unity and extend support to orphans.
“Life has changed; in the past, relatives supported orphans, but today, things are different. People have changed, but God’s love remains the same. Imat Rose, take heart—God knows why He took Joshua away.”
Dr. Joshua Luka Olet leaves behind his widow, Sandra Akullu Luka, and their two children, Abigail Nyambogo Luka and Adriel Nyambogo Luka.
His legacy as a dedicated medical professional and compassionate humanitarian will be remembered by those whose lives he touched.
The large turnout and emotional tributes at his burial underscored the deep respect and admiration he earned in his lifetime.
May his soul rest in eternal peace…………………………….
