Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa recently attended the emotional burial of Besweri Kaddu, the father of Archbishop Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, in Gulama, Najja, Buikwe District. Tayebwa paid tribute to Kaddu, emphasizing the powerful legacy he left through his children, particularly his son, Archbishop Kaziimba. Kaddu, who passed away at the age of 92, was a man who instilled enduring values in his family, and his death marked the loss of a key figure in both the Church and the community.
In his speech as the Chief Mourner, Tayebwa praised Archbishop Kaziimba for his tireless work in strengthening the Church of Uganda and driving forward development projects that continue to uplift communities. Tayebwa noted that Kaddu’s role in raising such a committed and dedicated son was proof of his successful parenting and the values he instilled in his children.
First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni, in a message conveyed by Deputy Inspector General of Government Anne Twinomugisha Muhairwe, also paid tribute to Kaddu. She reflected on the essential role fathers play in their children’s lives, not just during their childhood, but also as they grow into adulthood. She recognized the deep loss Kaddu’s passing represents and expressed condolences along with a Shs 10 million contribution to the family.
During the funeral service, the Bishop of Bukedi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel George Bogere Egesa, praised Kaddu’s lifelong dedication to hard work, faith, and the wise use of time. Quoting from the Bible, he urged the mourners to live lives of purpose, making decisions and using their time in ways that honor both God and those around them. He also reminded the congregation that life is short and fragile, encouraging everyone to live well, as we are all just visitors in this world.
Rt. Rev. Assoc. Prof. Fred Sheldon Mwesigwa, the Dean of the Church of Uganda, also expressed his condolences and highlighted Kaddu’s profound influence on those around him. He called on Archbishop Kaziimba to remain strong in the face of this loss and offered prayers for the family during this difficult time.
Bishop Enos Kitto Kagodo, in a message read by Rev. John Musoke, commended Kaddu for instilling strong moral values in his children. He encouraged all parents to follow this example, ensuring that the younger generation grows up with a solid foundation of character and integrity.
Rev. Moses Kisakye Mugalu, speaking on behalf of the grandchildren, expressed gratitude to Archbishop Kaziimba for the care he provided for his father in his final days. Archbishop Kaziimba, in turn, addressed the mourners, calling for unity and compassion across all divides, whether political or religious. He also raised concerns about rising healthcare costs, urging the government to prioritize the creation of a National Health Insurance system.
Responding to this call, Tayebwa assured the Archbishop and the gathered mourners that the government recognized the urgency of this matter and would ensure the necessary steps are taken when the National Health Insurance bill is presented in Parliament. He emphasized that ongoing discussions are already addressing this critical issue.
The burial ceremony was attended by a broad spectrum of leaders, including religious, cultural, and political figures, from both the central government and the Buganda Kingdom. The Mpindi Clan, represented by Dr. C.T. Mukasa Lusambu, paid tribute to Kaddu for raising children who have played pivotal roles in building the Church and advancing God’s work.
In a final ceremony, Ronald Ssebaduka was introduced as the new family head, succeeding Kaddu. Retired Bishop of Central Buganda, Rt. Rev. Jackson Matovu, prayed for Ssebaduka, offering him a Bible and advising him to lead the family with vigilance and faith. The clan also announced that the official installation ceremony of Ssebaduka as family head would be held in August.
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