The President of Uganda Yoweri Kaguta Museveni implored the youth in the country to embrace patriotism and Pan-Africanism as part of their development path.
He made the call during a reception to mark the 50th wedding anniversary of the former prime minister Amama Mbabazi and his wife Jacqueline Mbabazi at Serena Hotel in Kampala. The event brought together top government officials and religious leaders.
The event, attended by family, friends, and comrades, paid tribute to the couple’s unwavering commitment to their nation. President Museveni’s speech echoed the sentiments of the gathering. He praised the Mbabazis’ for their enduring contributions to Uganda’s struggle for freedom and reorientation.
“In her I saw a companion for life, someone who could shoulder the burdens of our struggle and nurture a family. It was this unwavering strength and indomitable spirit that drew me to her and together we embarked on a journey, a journey that has weathered storms.” Museveni said
The president highlighted Amama Mbabazi’s pivotal role in the resistance. From recruiting 28 individuals to form FRONASA—an elite force—to leading a 9,000-strong contingent during the capture of Kampala, his legacy remains etched in Uganda’s past and future.
Mbabazi was acting in the play as a father and believes he must have done a good job. According to him, something about the grey hair for the role of father seemed to have excited the girls.
Back in those days, the postal service was very good and people corresponded with each other by writing letters. Mbabazi did such a fantastic job at the acting that some girls at Bweranyangi wrote him “application letters” to be friends.
The former Prime Minister, Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda also congratulated Mbabazi and his wife for reaching the milestone and thanked them for being dependable and reliable friends.
“I’m also happy that Ndugu Amama is now carrying out responsibilities especially on the African and global scene on behalf of our country again handed to him by President Museveni because he knows his capacity and ability to be able to effectively address those issues.” Dr. Rugunda said.
