Local authorities in Jinja have taken the decision to rename a road in honor of the late former minister, Henry Kyemba, who passed away at the age of 86 in Namugongo, Kampala, on October 18.
Henry Kyemba had a significant political career, serving as the Minister of Culture and Community Development in President Idi Amin’s government in 1972. He later held the position of Minister of Health from 1973 to 1977. He went into exile in 1977 and only returned during President Museveni’s regime, where he served as a minister in various capacities.
The Deputy Jinja City Mayor, Ms. Fazira Kauma, proposed a motion to rename a road in his honor, which was unanimously adopted. Radio Road will now be known as Henry Kyemba Road in commemoration of his contributions.
Mr. Kyemba’s body lay in state at Jinja City Hall, where people paid their last respects. The event was attended by friends, political opponents, former classmates, and colleagues.
Jinja City Speaker, Mr. Bernard Mbayo, acknowledged that renaming the road might cause some inconvenience, especially for property owners on the road. However, the city council, guided by local government procedures, will manage the transition.
Col (Rtd) Tony Otto, a close friend of the deceased for over 30 years, emphasized the strength of their friendship, which they considered as family.
Ms. Georgina Tumusiime, the President of the Rotary Club of Source of the Nile, representing Rotary Clubs in Jinja, where Mr. Kyemba served as a member and District Governor, called for the government to honor him by establishing a library in his memory. She celebrated his contributions to Rotary and his dedication to humanity.
Jinja City Mayor, Mr. Peter Okocha Kasolo, shared his personal connection with the late Kyemba, having met him before entering politics. He mentioned the influence of Kyemba’s book, “A State of Blood,” which chronicles eyewitness accounts of President Idi Amin’s alleged brutality and reign of terror.
Mrs. Janet Kyemba, the widow, expressed gratitude to the government for giving her husband a dignified burial. She also highlighted his lifelong commitment to the fight against corruption.
