PRESIDENT MUSEVENI URGES BUSOGA MASTERS OF CEREMONIES TO BE AMBASSADORS OF WEALTH CREATION

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged the Masters of Ceremonies (MCs) in Busoga to be Ambassadors of wealth creation in the Subregion in order to contribute to the socio-economic transformation of Ugandans. President Museveni made the remarks today in his speech delivered by Haji Faruk Kirunda, the Special Presidential Assistant- Press and Mobilization while addressing the Busoga ceremony MCs at Sikezy Hotel, Iganga District. The Busoga Cultural and Events Speakers Association (BUSUSA), which is led by Mr. Meddy Dhakaba has over 250 MCs and it aims at uniting and helping them maintain professionalism and discipline in their field of work. The President also implored the MCs to use their platform to popularise government programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, aimed at helping Ugandans to fight poverty and create wealth. “Use the ceremonies to sensitise the masses on wealth creation and this also helps you because when people create wealth, they will be able to organise parties which you host and when they are poor, they will not be able to organise them,” President Museveni said in his message delivered by Haji Kirunda. “Be Ambassadors of wealth creation in your communities and also ensure that you change the mindsets of locals for positive development results.” He further advised the MCs to stay united and use their microphones to preach peace and stability in the country. “MCs can build or easily break the nation.” The President also castigated leaders especially those belonging to the ruling party- the National Resistance Movement (NRM) who shy away from using the media to mobilise and sensitise Ugandans on the achievements and programs of the government. “You instead let the enemies of the government use the media to try to cause instability in the country,” he cautioned. At the same event, President Museveni also contributed Shs10 Million to the new SACCO of the MCs association. The Iganga District Woman Member of Parliament, Hon. Sauda Kauma Alibawo thanked President Museveni for his able leadership that enables Ugandans to exercise their rights such as freedom of speech. “We thank you, Your Excellency, for enabling Ugandans to exercise their rights through the 1995 National Constitution,” she said. She however cautioned that Ugandans should utilise this freedom of speech well and not use it to destabilise the peace in the country. The event was also attended by the NRM Chairperson- Iganga District, Hajji Abubakar Walubi,the Minister of Information for Busoga, Mr. Michael Kifubangabo, who represented the kingdom, Jinja Northern Division Deputy Resident City Commissioner (D/RCC), Mr. Hamis Kiganira, Iganga Assistant RDC, Mr. Blessing Mubbi, Namayingo Assistant RDC, Mr. Yakut Kalange, among others.

2024-10-30

57 POLICE PRESIDENTIAL GUARD OFFICERS UNDERGO INDUCTION COURSE

A total of 57 Police Presidential Guard officers have undergone an induction course. The officers who completed the Tier II induction course on Tuesday 22nd October, 2024, were passed out at Fort Samora Machel Special Training School in Waza, Kaweweta, Nakaseke District. The Chief of Staff-Special Forces Command (SFC), Brig Gen. Paul Namawa congratulated the officers upon completing the induction course. “On your part, it's a culmination of your hard work, dedication and unwavering commitment to excellence. We honour you, the graduates of the special unit tactics course. You now stand before us here not only as Police Presidential Guard's men and women but now as elite warriors who have embraced the rigorous training and challenges that define our special forces,” he said. Brig. Gen. Namawa also thanked President Museveni for his visionary leadership that led to the formation of the Police Presidential Guard unit. “First and foremost we appreciate the strategic guidance by the Commander-In-Chief, His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uganda and the fountain of honour who is the vision bearer, he gave the guidance of creating what we are witnessing today. I would like to thank the Chief of the Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba for his continuous guidance through the capacity building journey of our security forces. I also take this honour to thank the leadership of the Uganda Police Force for selecting, mentoring and guiding you the graduates through basic training. We also thank the UPF for the continued sustainment of the Police Presidential Guards since inception dating many years back.” He said the special units tactics course is not merely an academic endeavour, it's a course that sets the limit for physical endurance, mental resilience and tactical acumen. “Over the past weeks you have learned your skills in small unit Operations, learning to think critically under pressure to adapt quickly to changing circumstances and to work cohesively as a team. These are skills required of any armed personnel preparing to undertake Very Important Person's Protection tasks under a contemporary threatening environment.” On his part, the Director Human Resource Development and Training of the Uganda Police Force, AIGP Kafeero Moses congratulated the trainees upon finishing this course. "I must thank the commandant of this school and the instructors. Like I said, I have been an instructor for many years. Training and getting your products perform such excellent tasks and demonstrations is proof that the commandant and his team have done very great work. As earlier said, keep up these good skills in the field and again keep growing in your career and whenever you are given an opportunity to do any other course, take it in good faith. Attitude towards training is very important," AIGP kafeero noted. “I know you did the earlier police course and now you have gone on to advance at this course, therefore, this is a great opportunity that you are picked to add on your skills and therefore in your career, whenever your bosses pick up on you to do another course, again have that great attitude. Training is about attitude, and once you have a great attitude, you'll finish on the same high note you started with.” The Commandant of Oliver Reginald Tambo School of Leadership School, Col. Justus Rukundo gave a brief talk to the graduates on the importance of ideological development. He quoted H.E Thomas Sankara, the former President of Burkina Faso as saying: “A soldier without political training is a potential criminal.” Col. Rukundo said the fundamental problem of development in Uganda is backwardness and underdevelopment. He said fighting backwardness can be achieved by grasping the four principles that the government put forward: Patriotism, Pan Africanism, socio-economic transformation and democracy. The Director of Training and Doctrine- SFC, Lt Col. Paul Micki Lokut said the special unit tactics course would go a long way in helping the trainees in being combat ready, able to undertake any challenge. He asked the trainees to thank themselves for taking themselves quite far by doing this course. He said today's demonstrations by members of the PPG were quite impressive. He also extended appreciation to the commander of SFC for all the support that was rendered to training. The Commandant of Fort Samora Machel Special Force Training School, Maj. Aloysious Nsobya applauded the trainees for their resilience. He thanked the UPDF, SFC and Uganda Police Force leadership for supporting this noble cause of training the PPG officers. He implored the trainees to go and serve the country and always be available for their respective duties.

2024-10-24

PACIFYING SOMALIA: PRESIDENT MUSEVENI AND H.E HASSAN SHEIKH MOHAMUD HOLD TALKS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has committed to continue supporting the Federal Republic of Somalia in her efforts towards total peace and stability. The President made the commitment on Saturday, October 19, 2024, during bilateral talks with H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of the Federal Republic of Somalia, at State Lodge, Nakasero in Kampala, who is in the country as an official guest. According to a communiqué read by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gen. Jeje Odongo, the two Heads of State exchanged views on the security situation in Somalia and the region and underscored the need to maintain peace, security, and stability in the Horn of Africa and in the African continent as a whole. They also commended sacrifices made by the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and Somali Security Forces in pacifying the country and the fight against Al-Shabaab. The Heads of State welcomed the establishment of the new Mission of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and built up on the achievements made by its predecessor ATMIS. “The mission should also leverage the lessons learned and implement a strategy that meets the specific capabilities required by the Somali Security Sector,” they said. They also emphasised that it is crucial to explore all funding options, including UN resolution 2719, and AUSSOM must have predictable and sustainable funding, and called upon the support of the International Community. The Heads of State further emphasised the need to adequately support the implementation of the Somali Security Development Plan and building the capabilities of the Somali Security Forces (SSFs) and called upon the international community to support in building capabilities to ensure smooth exit of AUSSOM. At the same ceremony, President Museveni and his guest witnessed the signing of the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), which is an integral part of the Memorandum of Understanding on Defense Cooperation, and noted the readiness by the respective Ministers to sign Memoranda of Understanding on Education and Sports, Immigration Management, and directed for the convening of the second session of the Joint Permanent Commission and Investment and Business Summit as soon as possible. Gen. Odongo Jeje Abubaker, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uganda, and Mr. Ahmed Moallim Fiqi Ahmed, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Somalia, signed the SOFA on behalf of the two countries. President Museveni congratulated H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud upon the Federal Republic of Somalia becoming a new member of the East African Community, which marked a new era of regional integration, wider regional markets, and trade cooperation. He also congratulated Somalia for being an incoming non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the years 2025-2026. The Heads of State reiterated their commitment to deepen integration through the East African Community (EAC), the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the wider African Union and further called upon the international community to continue supporting Somalia in building its institutions, especially Somali Security Forces (SSFs), to ensure that the progress and gains made are consolidated, as well as support for climate action and humanitarian assistance. His Excellency Hassan Sheikh Mohamud commended H.E. Museveni, the government, and the people of Uganda for the sacrifice made and commitment since 2007 to peace, security, and stability in Somalia and the region at large. “We are grateful for Uganda’s support in the fight against global terrorism in Somalia. In 2007, Uganda was the first country to respond to Somalia’s call for the deployment of peacekeeping troops—the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) until today continues to support us in our fight against terrorism and in keeping the peace,” H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud noted, while underscoring the need to further solidify the strong partnership between the two countries not only for a safer, more prosperous future but also to make a difference that resonates far beyond the borders. “Uganda is a truly invaluable ally, a reliable partner, supporter, and friend to Somalia. Your personal leadership and commitment, alongside your government’s efforts in Somalia in the last decade, have supported us to go forward to a better and brighter future for our people. Somalia will remain grateful entirely,” H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said. Their Excellencies also welcomed the lifting of the arms embargo on Somalia, which presents an opportunity to the Federal Government of Somalia to expedite the transition process, ensure the phased implementation of the Somali Security Development Plan, and enable the country to shoulder its security responsibilities. On trade, President Museveni and H.E Hassan Sheikh Mohamud underscored the need to further increase the volumes of bilateral trade between the two countries by bringing together the respective private sectors to identify opportunities for investment, trade, and tourism. President Museveni expressed gratitude to His Excellency Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for honouring his invitation and for the fruitful discussions held. H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud extended an invitation to His Excellency Museveni to visit the Federal Republic of Somalia. The ceremony was attended by, among others, the Minister for Defense and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth, the Deputy Chief of Defense Forces, Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defense and Veteran Affairs, Rosette Byengoma. Others were Ambassador Prof. Sam Tulya-Muhika, who is the Head of Ugandan Mission in Mogadishu, and officials from the Ministry of Defense and Veteran Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, among others.

2024-10-19

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI REOPENS MAKERERE UNIVERSITY’S RESTORED ICONIC IVORY TOWER, INSTALLS DR. CRISPUS KIYONGA AS NEW CHANCELLOR

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today officially reopened the reconstructed Makerere University Ivory Tower building. The Ivory Tower, the University’s main administrative building, caught fire on the night of September 20, 2020. The newly reconstructed Main Building includes a fascinating basement museum, an expanded administrative wing, a dedicated service wing and a bustling business centre. At the same event, President Museveni officiated at the installation ceremony of the new Chancellor of Makerere University, Dr. Crispus Kiyonga who succeeded Prof. Ezra Suruma. President Museveni congratulated Makerere University on restoring the administration building. “I was happy to take part in commissioning it and I acted as a tour guide to you, the new people, to show you where we used to have some historical debates like the debate we had in the 1969 in which I participated and Prof. Mazrui was there, even Kanyeihamba was also there. We used to have big arguments between the patriots who were led by Dr. Rodney and those who were pro-other ideas led by Prof. Mazrui,” he said. The President also congratulated the university upon getting a new Chancellor. “Dr. Kiyonga is an outstanding cadre and leader in the NRM, a member of the Central Executive Committee and has been very active in our efforts ever since the 1980 when we were involved with UPM. So I congratulate him and the University,” he stated. President Museveni also reiterated his call to universities to intensify and improve the way they teach science courses, putting an emphasis on value addition. “On the side of natural sciences, these universities like the ones in Africa have been doing some work but I want you to audit how you are doing it, can you not improve the teaching of Sciences? Science means understanding the laws of nature and using them to solve problems,” the President urged. He insisted that the science courses must be vertically integrated by teaching students how to transform the raw materials through adding value to them so as to get maximum value from them. He said that the crisis in Africa, like security, lack of jobs, is due to the knowledge gap among the intelligentsia of the third world countries. “Now from the side of social Sciences, it is again the same challenge because this human being when he was inventing things here and there, it would affect the way society organises. You have seen that when fire was invented, the whole society stopped from living in trees to caves. When our ancient people invented agriculture, the whole setup changed. Every change in the level of science affects society. Now are we conversant with these social ideas?” he wondered. “The paralysis in Africa is because of the challenges of social science ideas. We need the correct ideals of organising societies. I therefore challenge you to audit this.” The President however noted that the country is so far moving on well as far as promoting science, technology and innovation is concerned. “I think we are moving on well ever since we introduced the research fund. You can see the banana project, the Kiira Motors, the vaccines, things are really moving.” The First Lady and Minister of Education and Sport, Maama Janet Museveni thanked God for the successful restoration of the Main Building, a monumental infrastructure, and installing a new University Chancellor, Dr. Crispus Kiyonga. “Congratulations, Dr. Kiyonga, on your esteemed appointment. I also extend heartfelt congratulations to Professor Ezra Suruma for your exemplary service as Chancellor for two terms. You served your role with distinction, and we are proud of you,” Maama Janet said. She further noted that the memory of 20th September 2020, when the iconic ivory tower was engulfed in flames, remains vivid because Makerere’s main building is more than just infrastructure; it symbolises the history and evolution of higher education in Uganda and is a masterpiece of architecture. “Today, we celebrate its restoration and the newly ignited hope for the future. The Bible says a righteous man may fall seven times, but he rises again (Proverbs 24:16),” she asserted. Maama Janet also explained that the restoration of the Main Building symbolises a rising again of Makerere University. “Makerere will once again produce national, continental, and world leaders – men and women trained and equipped with knowledge and skill, passionate, selfless, and willing to pay the price to see their communities transformed, Africa united, economically independent, and developing. It is my prayer that Makerere will continue to play a pivotal role in future generations,” she said. “Your Excellency, I am delighted to note that Makerere has restored this building to its original exterior glory while making necessary interior adjustments to meet current needs. The restoration design undertaken by our academicians from the Makerere University College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT) is even more fulfilling. This exemplifies how our academic expertise can be practically applied to deliver public goods and services. We hope to see more initiatives where academicians directly support government projects, extending beyond the gates of Makerere.” Additionally, Maama Janet thanked President Museveni for his immediate directive to fund the restoration of the iconic building and other critical projects at Makerere, including the students’ residences. “When the University Council attempted to establish a fundraising committee for the Main Building, they had reservations about raising the substantial funds needed for such a complex restoration. Your timely intervention, Mr. President, underscores your unwavering support for the higher education sector and Makerere University,” the First Lady said. “The Main Building is not an isolated area of government investment at the University. We have just commissioned the School of Law Building and the refurbished Lumumba Hall. Other government-funded projects include the ongoing renovation of Mary Stuart Hall, the construction of the School of Dentistry, the Perimeter Wall, and improvements at the University Hospital, including setting up an operating theatre and ICU.” She also informed the attendees that the government of Uganda is focusing on funding research at the university. “Establishing the Research and Innovation Fund bridges this gap and ensures that our research efforts yield outcomes that drive economic growth and social transformation,” she noted. “On this momentous day, I must also commend the Government’s progressive steps toward resolving staff remuneration issues, including salary harmonisation and enhancement. This fiscal year, the Government has fully funded salary harmonisation across all Public Universities and remains committed to further salary enhancements as economic conditions improve.” In his acceptance speech, the new Chancellor, Dr. Kiyonga thanked President Museveni and the First Lady for their decision to appoint him as the University Chancellor. He said during his tenure, he will deepen the linkage of a wider community of students and staff of Makerere University with the central government and the communities of Uganda to ensure that the development agenda of the nation is achieved. “The struggle to develop and transform Africa is a revolutionary duty. It is therefore a duty of all patriots of Uganda and Africa wherever they may be to do what they can in support of this effort. Makerere University is a prominent and historical central learning and knowledge generating institution in Africa so it has a duty and obligation to develop Africa.” The Chairman of the Council- Makerere University, Ms. Lorna Magara congratulated Dr. Kiyonga upon being appointed as the new Chancellor for the university, saying they are eagerly waiting to benefit from his vast experience and extensive networks to advance the University’s cause. “To our outgoing Chancellor, Professor Ezra Suruma, we express our deepest gratitude for your exemplary service. Your leadership offered us a strong anchor in the turbulent Covid-19 times and when the Main Building burnt down. May God richly bless you and reward you for your selfless dedication,” she said. On behalf of the University Council, the Chairperson also extended their deepest gratitude to the government of Uganda led by H.E the President and the First Lady Maama for their unwavering support to the university. “The loss of critical documents and core infrastructure on the night of 20th September, 2020 was unbearable but here we stand today celebrating the rebirth of this iconic building now equipped with advanced technology to prevent such tragedies in the future,” Ms. Magara added. The Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe said the appointment of Dr. Kiyonga as the University Chancellor is a befitting recognition of his long and distinguished career as an active physician, statesman and diplomat. “We look forward for your leadership and guidance as the titular head of this great institution as Makerere University seeks to broaden the culture of science, technology and innovation, bolster its cherished partnerships with industry, boost internationalisation and graduate studentship as well as continue strategically liaising with the government to drive technology, innovation, commercialisation of research outputs, job creation and wealth creation,” he said. Prof. Nawangwe also called for the introduction of a graduate students government scholarship scheme. “This will increase the masters and PhD graduates that are so crucial for spurring innovation and economic development,” he said. The event was also attended by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, Ministers, Members of Parliament, academicians, among others.

2024-10-02

“YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT IS A GENUINE CONCERN”- COL. NAKALEMA TELLS ACADEMICIANS

The Head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), Col. Edith Nakalema has rallied academicians to find lasting solutions to the recurring burden of youth unemployment in Uganda. According to Col. Nakalema, the rampant unemployment rate in Uganda exacerbated by corruption levels and the failure for the youth to access policy makers, needs concerted efforts of all stakeholders to find both short-term and long-term solutions to tame the likely outcomes. “When these young people tell us that we are not giving them attention, it is a genuine concern because they now kind of own the country given that they are the majority and it is our duty to ensure that what they are putting to us is addressed,” Col. Nakalema said, while quoting the 2024 preliminary Population Census results which indicated that the youths (0-35 years) in Uganda constitute 82% of the 45.9 million people. The SHIPU head made the remarks on Wednesday 18th September, 2024 during a meeting with academicians and other leaders at the unit's offices in Kampala. The meeting was aimed at discussing and sharing solutions to youth unemployment, a challenge the country continues to deal with. The academicians included the Vice Chancellor Kyambogo University. Prof. Elly Katunguka, the Director General Uganda Management Institute, Dr. James Nkata, the Dean, School of Management Science, Uganda Management Institute, Prof. Gerald Kagambirwe Karyeija, Ms. Stella Kyohairwe, a lecturer at Uganda Management Institute, Mr. Adrian Bainebyabo also from Uganda Management Institute and Hon. Fred Ruhindi who is the Pro Bono legal advisor at the State House Investors Protection Unit. “Several factors affect youth unemployment in Uganda, including poor access to quality education and training, a skills gap between job seekers and open positions, a dearth of formal jobs relative to the number of young people entering the labour force and the dominance of the informal sector,” Col. Nakalema noted, adding that whereas the government has spearheaded several interventions to tackle the unemployment challenge such as the Presidential skilling program, the Youth Livelihood Program (YLP), Skilling Uganda, Uganda Youth Venture Capital Fund (VYVCF), Youth Apprenticeship and Skills Development Program, National Enterprise Development Program (NEDP) and the Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP) among many others, the problem still persists. “And the level of disgruntlement against the government is deepening and it is our big concern now. However, the challenge we are facing needs your minds, the researchers and leaders of top academic institutions,” she said. The meeting was intended to among other key fundamental strategies; reflect on the strategies to expand the job creation capacity in Uganda's economy, the capacity building priorities of education/training institutions in order to effectively tackle youth unemployment and how to effectively nurture the increasingly non-negotiable soft skills and align the competencies of young people with the demands of the world of work today. Col. Nakalema further informed the meeting that proposals from other stakeholders including Makerere University to enhance government efforts in tackling the unemployment challenge have already been forwarded to the President. Among the proposals was to mobilise the youths into categories; the literate/skilled and unemployed and the second category of illiterate/unskilled and unemployed who seem to be a dangerous group. “But again, also the skilled but unemployed can even be more dangerous because they know what to do to destroy whatever is available. This categorisation will help in national planning to possibly incorporate them in the relevant government MDAs as well as private sector,” Col. Nakalema stated. Other revolutionary measures already in the proposal include; waiving off taxes from small business startups for the youths in order to ensure sustainability of business startups and for government to support Universities in establishing centres of entrepreneurial skill development to equip graduates with practical competencies to help them generate income other than searching for the limited white-collar jobs. The Vice Chancellor, Kyambogo University, Prof. Elly Katunguka called on fellow learning institutions to enhance entrepreneurship training in addition to the theories taught. “I just returned from the University of Iowa State University that specialises in building small business enterprises. Somebody graduates with a business ready to roll out,” Prof. Katunguka said, adding that many graduates can’t find jobs due to the large amount of theoretical content. The Director General, Uganda Management Institute, Dr. James Nkata called for a national employment policy framework where all stakeholders can contribute strategies to end the problem. According to Dr. Nkata, this would help the youths conceptualise work and unemployment. “Most of the youths we have today have a narrow conceptualisation of unemployment by thinking only about white-collar jobs and earning a government salary,” Dr. Nkata noted. The Dean, School of Management Science, Uganda Management Institute, Prof. Gerald Kagambirwe Karyeija suggested a comprehensive study of the youth policy and structure in the country to ensure that it responds to the current needs and demands of the youth. “In the long term it's helpful for the President to consider having a small review commission to look at the youth question comprehensively in view of national employment philosophy, reconceptualization of work and unemployment and opportunity creation but also in terms of their active engagement in both the economy and the governance of this country,” he said. Ms. Stella Kyohairwe a lecturer at Uganda Management Institute called for talent identification and development as one way of empowering the youths through sports which is a very lucrative venture globally. The meeting is among the series of engagements Col. Nakalema has had with various stakeholders including youth leaders, the business community among others. According to Col. Nakalema, after studying the proposals, President Museveni is expected to meet the youth leaders in October to discuss the issue in order to have a landmark contribution towards creating an environment where the youths can thrive and contribute towards economic growth.

2024-09-19

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI LAUDS LATE GEN. ARONDA NYAKAIRIMA FOR THE TRANSFORMATIVE VOTER IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has praised the late Gen. Aronda Nyakairima for his transformative impact on Uganda's voter identification system, which has been a cornerstone of the country's democracy and stability. President Museveni made the remarks today during the memorial thanksgiving ceremony for the late Gen. Aronda, held at the Commonwealth Resort, Munyonyo. Earlier on, the ceremony was preceded by a service officiated by All Saints Cathedral, Kampala, and led by Rt. Rev. Onesmus Asiimwe, the Bishop of North Kigezi Diocese, with assistance from Rt. Rev. Emeritus Patrick Tugume. This event marked the final day of a three-day 2024 Kampala Defence and Security Expo, which commenced on Tuesday, September 10, 2024. The expo was held under the theme: “Celebrating the Life of Hon. Gen. Aronda Nyakairima; A Paragon of Revolutionary Sacrifice, Pan-Africanism, Patriotism, Courage, and an Accomplished Freedom Fighter”. According to President Museveni, when he appointed Gen. Aronda Minister of Internal Affairs, he tackled a problem that had plagued Uganda since independence; the accurate identification of Ugandans, particularly voters. He highlighted that the 1962 elections were marred by widespread fraud orchestrated by the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) and Kabaka Yekka. “Each party had its own box, and voters were secretly directed to fill boxes in favour of UPC. The boxes, marked with symbols like the hoe for DP and a finger for Kabaka Yekka, were manipulated to ensure results favoured the UPC. This level of deceit undermined the entire electoral process, making MPs unaccountable and indifferent to their constituents,” he noted. Following Amin's removal in 1979, President Museveni said his group sought to reform this corrupt system. “Despite our efforts to introduce transparent practices like one ballot box per polling station and public voting, cheating persisted with multiple registrations and fake ballot papers,” he explained. While in power, the President introduced the idea of electronic voting with fingerprint identification, a concept he proposed two decades ago, in order to combat the vice. “Fingerprints are unique; Gen. Muhoozi’s fingerprints are different from mine,” President Museveni noted. Initially met with scepticism, the President said the technology was refined through a partnership between Uganda and a German company, which proposed scanning the entire hand to ensure accuracy. He added that although the machines were procured, a legal loophole allowed manual voting if the machines failed. “The law must be amended to state that if the electronic system fails, elections at that polling station should be suspended. Aronda’s efforts were significant, but the law still left room for cheating.” President Museveni also praised Gen. Aronda’s discipline and the significance of the culture of remembering contributions of such exceptional people. “Thank you, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and the Ministry for organising this remembrance for Aronda. This remembrance is crucial for justice and education, providing a forum for retired and serving officers to unite,” he said. “I salute those who organised this remembrance ceremony. This is a good culture because it does justice to those who sacrificed, so people get to know what they did. We have now done justice to Gen. Aronda. Additionally, people who were not there get to learn about what the departed did; it is an education for all. Lastly, it creates a forum where retired, still-serving, and young officers come together,” he added. Reflecting on divine intervention, President Museveni expressed that while not everything is due to God, improvements in healthcare measures have increased life expectancy to 65 years in the country. He recounted how Gen. Aronda’s undiagnosed heart condition led to his suffering during a conference trip, highlighting the need for better healthcare. “Aronda and his peers rejuvenated the Uganda People’s Defence Forces and reinforced the NRA's principle of strategic relationship with the people,” he noted. He also acknowledged the success of Wazalendo Savings and Credit Cooperative, which Gen. Aronda significantly advanced, turning it into a major institution. “Then Wazalendo, I don’t know what happened. We had talked about this Wazalendo for a long time, and it was not being implemented. The present leadership in UPDF should find out why Wazalendo had not taken off yet. We had talked about it a long time, but Aronda came and really jump-started it. It’s now a very big bank,” he noted. Mrs. Linda Aronda, the widow of the late Gen. Aronda, reflected on her husband's remarkable life and legacy. She shared intimate insights into their life together and the indelible impact Gen. Aronda had on both his family and the nation. Mrs. Aronda reminisced about their early years, saying, "In the 1990s, I met a young Aronda, then a Major. From the very start, he was a dedicated officer at the Presidential Protection Unit, now known as the Special Forces Command. Even during our courtship, his commitment to his work was unwavering." “Despite his demanding role, he always made time for our relationship. There were times during our dates when he would receive urgent calls to return to work. He would promptly drop me home and head back to his duties. Our bond deepened, leading to our marriage in 1996 and the birth of our two wonderful children, Samuel and Samantha,” she added. Mrs. Aronda also spoke about the challenges of balancing family life with a military career. “After our marriage, he was transferred to Masaka's Armored Brigade, which meant our family saw little of him. However, whenever he returned home, he made it a priority to spend quality time with me and the children, despite his hectic schedule.” “Even with his packed schedule, he always tried to be present for us. Although he couldn't attend school events frequently, he made those moments special when he could. His honesty, patience, and kindness were evident to all who knew him.” She further emphasised Gen. Aronda’s work ethic and his message to the youth. “His dedication was immense, often working nearly around the clock, especially on crucial projects like the ID initiative. His message to the youth was always clear: -Success comes from diligence and effort. You have to work hard to achieve anything.” In conclusion, Mrs. Aronda expressed her gratitude to the President and UPDF for the support rendered towards their family. “We are immensely grateful to the UPDF and President Museveni for their unwavering support to our family. Their kindness has provided us with comfort and stability.” In attendance of the memorial thanksgiving ceremony were the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Jacob Oboth Oboth; Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces; Ms. Rosette Byengoma, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs; Dr. Johnson Byabashaija, the Commissioner General of Prisons; service commanders; retired generals; service chiefs of staff; and the family of the late Gen. Aronda. Biography: The Late Gen. Aronda Nyakairima was born on July 7, 1959, to the late Mr. Jeremiah and the late Gla-Idys Nyakairima of Rukungiri District. He attended Katojo Primary School, Lubiri Secondary School, and Kitgum High School for his primary and secondary education. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Political Science from Makerere University in 1981 and joined the Protracted People's Struggle in 1982. He was commissioned in 1986 to the rank of JO2 and served through the ranks to General, the rank he held until his death. Military Courses Attended: Senior Strategic Course, Egypt, 1999 CGSC, USA, 1993 JCSC, Jinja OBC, Intake 01/89, Bombo International Security Course, UK, 1987 Aronda's notable career began in the military, where he served with distinction as the Army Commander from June 2003 to October 2005. His strategic acumen was further demonstrated as the Overall Commander of Operation Iron Fist from May 2002 to June 2003, a crucial period in the nation’s defence operations. Transitioning from military to political leadership, Gen. Aronda was a prominent figure in the 8th and 9th Parliaments as a Member of Parliament representing UPDF from November 2005 to April 2013. His leadership continued as he was appointed Chief of Defence Forces, a role he held from 2003 to 2013. In 2013, Gen. Aronda took on the role of Minister of Internal Affairs, representing UPDF, and continued to serve the nation until his passing on September 12, 2015.

2024-09-12