Undergraduate dies of poisoning

Makerere University has confirmed that second-year student Francisca Amongin died from carbon monoxide poisoning, ending days of speculation surrounding the tragic incident.

Amongin, who was pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Education (Mathematics and Economics), was initially reported dead while investigations into the cause of her death were still ongoing.

The university’s Office of the Minister for Students’ Affairs, through Owen Nasasira, had earlier announced her passing without disclosing further details.

“We have lost a dear sister, Amongin Francisca, a Year 2 student who was pursuing Bachelor of Science in Education (Mathematics & Economics). However, her cause of death is yet to be determined,” Nasasira had said.

However, in an update released on Monday, the university disclosed that a postmortem examination confirmed that the student died from suffocation caused by carbon monoxide poisoning.

“The report indicates that Amongin died of suffocation caused by oxygen deprivation and inhalation of harmful gases, specifically carbon monoxide poisoning,” Nasasira stated.

Preliminary investigations suggest the deadly gas may have accumulated after a stove was left on inside a poorly ventilated hostel room, with the doors and windows reportedly closed.

The university also announced that burial arrangements for the late student had been concluded. Amongin is scheduled to be buried on Tuesday, May 12, in Aninolal Village, Inomo Sub-county, Kwania District, her ancestral home.

“Ms. Amongin will be laid to rest tomorrow on Tuesday at 10:00 AM in Aninolal Village, Inomo Sub-county, Kwania District,” Nasasira confirmed.

The institution called on students, staff and well-wishers to support the bereaved family as the university community mourns the loss of one of its students.

Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when the toxic gas builds up in the bloodstream, depriving vital organs of oxygen. Because the gas is colourless, odourless and tasteless, victims often do not realise they are inhaling it until they lose consciousness.

Medical experts say the gas is commonly produced from burning fuels such as charcoal, wood and gas, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath, blurred vision and loss of consciousness.

The tragedy comes amid growing concerns over carbon monoxide-related deaths in homes and hostels across East Africa. Recently, two children aged six and seven were found dead in Kiambu County, Kenya, in a suspected carbon monoxide poisoning incident linked to a burning charcoal stove left inside a locked house.