Prominent senior lawmakers have expressed mounting apprehensions over the growing scarcity of public servants characterized by unswerving integrity. They have issued stern warnings that this predicament could potentially have severe repercussions for the future of Uganda, including the risk of internal conflicts.
These concerns were raised during a parliamentary session where legislators paid their respects to the late Henry Kisadha Kisajja Magumba Kyemba, a highly regarded civil servant and politician celebrated for his impeccable service to the public.
On October 19, 2023, Kyemba, aged 84, passed away due to complications stemming from diabetes at URO Care Hospital in Kampala.
Kyemba’s illustrious career saw him occupy several pivotal roles. He served as the Principal Private Secretary to former Presidents Milton Obote and Idi Amin from 1962 to 1971 and 1971 to 1973, respectively.
He also held the position of Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Culture and Community Development from 1974 to 1975 and later served as the Minister for Health from 1975 to 1977.
Furthermore, Kyemba took on the role of State Minister for Animal Industry and Fisheries in the early years of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s administration.
Dr. James Nsaba Buturo, the representative of Bufumbira East Constituency, who closely collaborated with the late Kyemba during the Constituent Assembly in 1994, emphasized Kyemba’s life characterized by patriotism and unblemished integrity. However, he lamented that these qualities are currently in short supply among public servants, posing a peril to the nation’s future.
Prof. Elijah Dickens Mushemeza, a legislator for Sheema South Constituency, who interacted with Kyemba as a Constituent Assembly delegate, underscored Kyemba’s reverence for authority and trustworthiness. These qualities allowed Kyemba to serve in key positions throughout the Amin, Obote, and Museveni eras.
Cecilia Atim Ogwal, a former Constituent Assembly delegate and the present Dokolo District Woman Representative, portrayed Kyemba as a paragon of truthfulness and tolerance, particularly when dealing with individuals of diverse political affiliations.
She drew a stark contrast with contemporary politicians who often thrive on sowing division among the populace.
Naome Kabasharira, a former Constituent Assembly delegate and legislator representing Rushenyi County, fondly recollected Kyemba as a Rotarian and diplomat known for his exceptional etiquette.
Kyemba introduced her to Rotary clubs, emphasizing the importance of serving humanity across Uganda and the East African Community.
Henry Kisadha Kisajja Magumba Kyemba was a devoted member of the Rotary International movement, becoming a Rotarian in 1987 as a Charter Member of the Source of the Nile Rotary Club, now located in Jinja City. Under his influence, the Rotary Movement expanded in Uganda, boasting approximately 400 clubs as of 2023. Uganda now falls under District 9213, which includes Tanzania.
At the time of his passing, Kyemba held the prestigious position of Past District Governor (PDG) in Rotary International District 9200, encompassing Uganda, Kenya, Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Tanzania.
The District Governor is the highest-ranking office within the Rotary International Movement at the district level, second only to the President of Rotary International, who leads the global movement.
During a special parliamentary session chaired by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa on Tuesday, First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga moved a motion to pay tribute to the late Kyemba.
President Museveni accorded Kyemba a state funeral in recognition of his outstanding service. Kyemba’s early education took place in local primary schools, and he later attended Busoga College Mwiri, where he completed his Cambridge School Certificate (1951–1956).
His pursuit of higher education led him to Makerere University from 1957 to 1962, culminating in the attainment of a Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in History. Kyemba furthered his academic journey with a master’s degree in history from Northwestern University in Evanston, US, and a Certificate in African studies from the same institution.
He also achieved an Honours degree in history from London University. Henry Kisadha Kisajja Magumba Kyemba will be laid to rest at his ancestral home in Jinja District today, on October 26, 2023.