The Association of Radiologists in Uganda has honored the late Dr Cyprian Opira, former Director of St Mary’s Hospital Lacor, as a transformative figure in Ugandan radiology, dubbing him the “father of radiology and imaging in Uganda.”
Dr Opira died on October 30 at the age of 63 of complications related to stroke.
“Dr Opira served with unwavering dedication, compassion, and commitment, bringing quality radiology services to the underserved communities in northern Uganda,” said Dr Max Crescent Tumusiime, president of the Association of Radiologists.
Speaking at a memorial service on Friday at Our Lady of Africa Church in Mbuya, Dr Tumusiime praised Dr Opira as a visionary leader who inspired many to join radiology and elevated Lacor Hospital into a world-class healthcare facility.
Radiology, as defined by the American College of Radiology, is a medical specialty that uses imaging technology, such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds, to diagnose and treat various diseases and injuries.
The memorial service drew dignitaries from northern Uganda, including Chief Justice Owiny Dollo, former UN Under-Secretary General Ambassador Olara Otunnu, and Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao.
Minister Mao recounted Dr Opira’s selflessness, recalling how the deceased medic provided essential medical assistance despite facing his own health battles.
“Dr Opira was a man who never complained, serving tirelessly even when unwell,” Mao said.
From Village School to Leading Consultant
Dr Cyprian Opira’s journey began in Atiak, Amuru District, where he excelled at Olya Primary School in 1973, earning a spot at St Mary’s College Kisubi.
He later attended Makerere University, graduating in 1985 with a degree in medicine and surgery.
He joined Lacor Hospital as a medical intern and later pursued a Master’s in Radiology at Milan State University, where he specialised in the science of imaging.
Dr Opira served as the Executive Director of Lacor Hospital from March 2008 until his passing on October 30, 2024, at Mulago National Referral Hospital.
He was one of Uganda’s few Senior Consultant Radiologists and received a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023 for his contributions to the health sector.
Dr Opira’s burial is scheduled for Saturday, November 9, at Lacor Hospital, where he will rest among the hospital’s founders, including Dr Mathew Lukwiya, Dr Piero Corti, and Dr Lucille Teasdale Corti.