Ugandan journalist Moses Agaba, popularly known as Seaman, has opened up about his worsening health struggles, revealing that he now weighs 186 kilogrammes and faces serious medical concerns as he battles obesity and the challenges that come with his increasing body size.
Seaman’s health condition has sparked concern after he disclosed that doctors had warned him about the risks his weight poses to his life, with surgery reportedly recommended to help him reduce the amount of food his body can take in.
Speaking about his health journey, Agaba revealed that medical professionals had advised him to undergo a procedure that could reduce the size of his digestive system, helping him feel full faster and eat less.
“Doctors have told me that I need surgery to help me lose weight by reducing the amount of food my body can take in. The procedure may involve reducing the size of my digestive system so that I feel full sooner and eat less,” Agaba said.
Beyond his health concerns, the journalist has also spoken out about the emotional and social challenges he faces because of his appearance, saying that people often stare at him, whisper about him or take his photographs without his permission.
“I currently weigh 186kg, and whenever people meet me, they stare or whisper about me. Some even take my pictures without my permission,” he revealed.
Agaba appealed to the public to show more understanding instead of making assumptions about his body, noting that people may not know the personal circumstances behind changes in someone’s physical appearance.
“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,” he added.
The journalist also shared the financial burden of moving around while living with obesity, explaining that he sometimes has to pay double transport fares because of the space he occupies.
Recounting a recent journey from Kabaale, Agaba said he spent UGX 80,000 on transport, highlighting the additional expenses that have become part of his daily life.
“Yesterday, I travelled from Kabaale and had to pay UGX 80,000 in transport fares. I’m still not used to paying double for transport,” he said.
He added that both boda boda riders and taxi operators charge him extra, with some transport arrangements requiring him to pay for two seats.
“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,” Agaba said.
His revelations have brought attention to the difficulties faced by people living with obesity, including health complications, financial pressures and the stigma they may encounter in public.
While his account highlights the serious challenges he is facing, Agaba’s appeal is also a reminder that behind every physical change may be a personal health journey that outsiders do not fully understand.
As he considers the medical advice given to him, the journalist is calling for empathy, respect and an end to the habit of turning other people’s bodies into public spectacles.
