Minister Kaboyo hands over 800 Iron sheets during Memorial for 1989 Nalu/ADF Attack Victims

By: Blessing Jean

KASESE

Hon. Alice Kaboyo, Minister of State for Luwero Triangle in the Office of the Prime Minister, on October 9 handed over 800 iron sheets to beneficiaries in Kasese District and joined hundreds of residents at a memorial service honoring nine families who lost their breadwinners during a rebel attack in 1989.

Ministers Kaboyo and Kabbyanga, together with religious leaders, joined families of nine brave leaders whose lives were tragically cut short by NALU rebels on Uganda’s Independence Day in 1989

The ceremony, held at Kitholhu Subcounty, brought together the 1989 Widows Association, religious leaders, and government officials to remember those killed by National Army for the Liberation of Uganda (NALU) and Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels 36 years ago.

The memorial, led by Hon. Kaboyo, was a moment of reflection, unity, and hope. She was joined by Hon. Godfrey Baluku Kabbyanga Kiime, Minister of State for Information, Communication Technology and National Guidance, alongside local leaders and clergy, who paid tribute to the fallen patriots.
“These brave men were loyal supporters of the NRM government under the leadership of H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni,” Kaboyo said. “They fell while serving their nation with courage, loyalty, and conviction. It is a noble and good tradition to remember them, and I sincerely thank the clergy for leading us in prayer.”

She added that this year’s Independence focus on forgiveness and reconciliation is rooted in the message shared during the 25th National Prayer Breakfast held at State House Entebbe under the theme, “Fear not, repent and serve the Lord.”

“Forgiveness and reconciliation are what our country needs most,” Kaboyo said. “As our President always emphasizes, I urge all Ugandans to avoid planning or executing evil regardless of the injustices faced. Let us forgive, and ask God to forgive those who wronged us.”

Hon Alice Kaboyo addresses families during the 1989 Independence Day memorial in Kasese

In her address, Kaboyo encouraged families to remain united and focused on rebuilding their lives. “Each family is receiving 50 iron sheets, widows will receive akasiimo of 1.5 million shillings, and each family will receive akasiimo of 5 million shillings,” she said. “We shall continue to support these families under the Office of the Prime Minister’s Luwero–Rwenzori as part of our affirmative action to uplift communities and promote socioeconomic transformation.”

Kaboyo officially handed over 800 iron sheets to beneficiaries in Kasese District to improve housing conditions for the affected families. She further urged communities to form SACCOs to promote development through teamwork and cooperation.

“A united family develops faster,” she said. “No one should be left behind. Through family projects, we learn communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Working toward a shared goal strengthens our identity and values as Ugandans committed to peace and progress.”

Hon. Kabbyanga commended the courage and resilience of the families, noting that their endurance continues to inspire future generations. “It was on this same date, 36 years ago, while Uganda celebrated Independence Day, that tragedy struck,” he said. “Nine dedicated leaders and loyal supporters of the NRM government lost their lives in a brutal attack by NALU rebels disguised in army uniforms.”

He read out the names of the nine victims; Late Baluku Mafuta John, Late Muhindo Alfred Kabuki, Late Bwambale Yokasi Kiyideka, Late Selevest Kiseja Kisune, Late Baguma Muleju Musema, Late Mbusa Ntolya Kapara, Late Mbandaghati Asanairi, Late Mbusa David Kasaku, and Late Muhindo Gideon Bagheni noting that their resilience and faith had become a source of strength for the community.
“Their sacrifice left behind widows and orphans whose resilience continues to tell a story of courage, loss, and unbroken faith,” Kabbyanga said. He urged Kasese leaders to “preach NRM government achievements and listen to our people’s needs so that together we improve our communities and general well-being.”

A representative of the survivors of NALU and ADF attacks, Mr. Mukeh Jochkim, appealed for continued government support. “We request a monument or mass grave, health centers, houses, and jobs for the orphans, as well as financial support for widows,” he said.

Mr. Kibiriya, another community representative, added that more families were affected by the Independence Day attack. “We have additional people who were killed on Oct. 9, 1989, and 200 million shillings was given to this parish,” he said.

In response, Hon. Kaboyo directed local leaders to identify and verify those families for possible inclusion among the beneficiaries.

Rev. Fr. Mark Bwambale, the parish priest who presided over the service, expressed gratitude for the government’s continued engagement with the people of Kasese. “It is historic to host two ministers at once in our parish,” he said. “Your presence brings comfort to the families and hope for continued development in this region.”

The memorial closed with prayers for peace, forgiveness, and unity as families held a memorial in honor of their loved ones. The heroes whose sacrifice remains etched in the memory of Uganda’s journey toward peace and independence.

END