Dr Ignatius James Batwala passed away late on Wednesday night after collapsing at his home in Ntinda, just hours after returning from a burial in eastern Uganda, his family has confirmed.
The 89-year-old had earlier travelled to Muguluka Village in Iganga District to attend the burial of a family friend. Relatives said he returned to Kampala in the evening and appeared normal throughout the journey.
According to his nephew, Arnold Lwabi, Dr Batwala began feeling unwell shortly after arriving at his residence on Semawatta Road. Family members got out of the car, but he reportedly chose to remain seated, saying he needed to rest for a moment.
After a short while, he attempted to step out of the vehicle but suddenly collapsed against the garage door. His family raised an alarm and called for medical help as they tried to administer first aid.
An ambulance rushed him to Mulago National Referral Hospital, but doctors pronounced him dead on arrival. The incident happened shortly before the New Year, with events unfolding between about 10:30pm and 12:15am.
Family members said Dr Batwala had been active earlier in the day and even addressed mourners at the burial. They added that during the drive back to Kampala, he continued receiving calls from patients and scheduled future appointments.
Those who spent time with him earlier said he showed no signs of illness. Frederick Kibedi, who sat beside him during the burial ceremony, said the doctor appeared healthy.
“He did not look unwell at all,” Kibedi said, adding that he later received a call close to midnight informing him that Dr Batwala had collapsed and passed away.
Dr Batwala was a respected gynecology consultant who served for many years at Mulago National Referral Hospital. After retiring from public service, he continued practicing privately at Fiona Clinic, which he first operated on Kampala Road before relocating it to his home in Ntinda.