By Weswa Ronnie
MBALE CITY
Michael Rugumayo, 38, a resident of Namasaba cell, Doko ward, Industrial city division in Mbale city, is appealing for help after allegedly being neglected by his employer, Mbale Industrial Park, following a work-related accident in early March, 2026.
Rugumayo, who worked at the textile and garment manufacturing factory producing polythene bags, says he was electrocuted after accidentally stepping in electric water while on duty due to lack of protective gear, severely injuring his two legs.
He claims the park authorities provided initial first aid and took him to a nearby clinic, paying 100,000 shillings for treatment and giving him 50,000 shillings for transport.
“I couldn’t finish the treatment as prescribed by the doctor because the money was limited, and I couldn’t afford more. Now my legs are worsening every day,” he said.
The patient adds that he’s no longer getting a salary, making life harder as he struggles to pay rent, medical bills, support his wife and four children. He wants Mbale Industrial Park to compensate him with 3 million shillings and cover his return to his home district, Fort Portal, for better treatment and family support.
However, Kendy Mushemeza, the public relations officer, Mbale Industrial Park, while speaking to the media today Monday, 23rd March, 2026 dismisses allegations, saying Rugumayo left the clinic before completing treatment.
He said all workers have protective equipment, but some refuse to use them although this publication has no evidence on that statement.
He claims the park took Rugumayo to a nearby clinic and paid for treatment, and was willing to cover other costs since workers are insured, but Rugumayo left before finishing treatment.
He says the Industrial Park has decided to send Rugumayo back for treatment and he’ll resume duty afterwards.
Sam Mulyanyma, Mbale city labour officer who mediated between the park and the injured worker condemned the Industrial Park’s actions, saying they should cover treatment costs since the accident happened on duty, as the Uganadan labor law states.
He says he’s instructed the park to provide personal protective gear to workers.
Last year, during the visit of Prime Minister, Robinna Nabanjja and State Minister for Investment, Evelyn Anite Kajin, similar challenges like lack of protective gear, low payment, and poor treatment of workers were raised by workers and discussed. The industrial park authorities were warned and told to improve.
