Ugandan journalist Moses Agaba, widely known in the Kigezi sub-region by his nickname “Seaman”, has publicly shared his personal experience of living with severe obesity.

Speaking during an interview on NTV Uganda's morning show Mwasuze Mutya, the Kabale-based reporter revealed how drastic physical changes have transformed his daily life, public interactions, and personal mobility.

A Sudden Transformation

Before his health took an unexpected turn, Agaba led an active lifestyle. In his earlier years, he was an energetic athlete and goalkeeping figure for local football teams in Kabale, weighing around 70 kg. However, his life changed in 2013 when he began experiencing significant weight gain.

Read Also
Munyao’s Tokyo record inspires him for Valencia swift charge Sports
Muyoti banks on Leopards knowledge to plot Ingwe downfall Football
Adhiambo set for Lionesses return in Africa Sevens redemption bid Rugby

Medical evaluations subsequently confirmed a diagnosis of obesity. Regional health reports indicate the sudden physical change followed severe breathing complications and medical treatments that severely altered his body's metabolism.

Ugandan reporter Moses Agaba // NTV Uganda (Facebook)
Today, Agaba works as a reporter covering the Kigezi region for ChimpReports. Yet, his physical size frequently draws unwanted attention from the public.

"I currently weigh 186kg, and whenever people meet me, they stare or whisper about me. Some even take my pictures without my permission," Agaba said.

"I wish people would ask me what caused this change in my body. There may be a story behind it that you know nothing about."

The Financial and Social Toll

Living with obesity presents continuous practical hurdles for the journalist. Public transport in Uganda has become a major daily expense and inconvenience.

"Yesterday, I travelled from Kabaale and had to pay UGX 80,000 in transport fares," Agaba explained. "I’m still not used to paying double for transport. The boda boda charges me extra, and the taxi also charges me twice because I occupy two seats. It’s not easy living with obesity."

Medical Guidance and Next Steps

Following medical consultations, doctors have recommended surgical intervention to manage his condition.

"Doctors have told me that I need surgery to help me lose weight by reducing the amount of food my body can take in," Agaba stated. "The procedure may involve reducing the size of my digestive system so that I feel full sooner and eat less."

Ugandan reporter Moses Agaba // NTV Uganda (Facebook)
Agaba has recently sought treatment at Mulago National Referral Hospital in Kampala. Friends, colleagues, and well-wishers across Uganda continue to rally support to assist him with his ongoing medical care.