KAMPALA, Uganda – The family of the late Ugandan-born UK-based cancer consultant Dr. David Otim-Oyet has described him as an “iconic son of Lango” whose death is irreplaceable, as his body arrived at Entebbe International Airport ahead of burial on Saturday.
Dr. Otim-Oyet, a globally respected cancer specialist, died following a brief illness. He had served for more than a decade in the United Kingdom and previously worked in several Ugandan hospitals.
Speaking at the airport, his son, Paul Oyet Otim, who is based in Canada, praised his father’s international impact on medicine as well as his deep roots in Lango tradition.
“Dr. Otim-Oyet was not only a world-class cancer consultant but a pride to our people. He served humanity with humility and excellence. Lango has lost an icon,” Paul Oyet Otim said.
He added: “He belonged to the Omolo Acol Odyek Onywal Iceng clan and was a son to the late Rwot Paul Oyet, a respected administrator, traditional as well as a religious leader. Dr. Otim carried that lineage with dignity.”
Dr. Otim-Oyet was a brother to retired Colonel Charles Olaka Oyet and several siblings. His body will be laid to rest on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at his ancestral home in Tegony, Iceme Town Council, Oyam North, Oyam District.
Paul Oyet Otim called on the people of Lango and Ugandans in general to turn up in numbers to honour a man who “put his knowledge at the service of the sick, the poor, and the young.”
Frederick Ogwal Oyee, a nephew to the late doctor and also clan chief of Inomo, said: “We not only mourn my uncle but also celebrate his life. May the doctor’s soul rest in perfect peace.”
