Jinja City Council rename road in memory of Henry Kyemba

Jinja, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT |  Jinja City Council authorities have unanimously resolved to rename Radio Road in honor of the late former Health Minister, Henry Kyemba, recognizing his significant contributions to the political development not only of Busoga but of the entire nation. This decision was reached during a special council sitting held at Jinja City Council Hall on Wednesday to honor the late Henry Kyemba.

Kyemba passed away on October 19, 2023, after battling prostate cancer at a private hospital in Kampala. The motion to rename Radio Road after Kyemba was presented by the Deputy Mayor, Fazila Kauma. She described Kyemba as Busoga’s most iconic figure in the global political arena and emphasized that naming one of the roads after him is a fitting tribute to a man who played a pivotal role in promoting Busoga to the world. Kauma highlighted Kyemba’s reputation for integrity and corruption-free public service throughout his career, saying that the motion aims to create a lasting memorial in his name for future generations.

Agnes Kadama, the Jinja West Women Councilor seconded the motion and lauded Kyemba for spearheading numerous humanitarian initiatives, including the establishment of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, various water projects, and school rehabilitation efforts across the country. Kadama stressed that Kyemba’s dedication to humanitarian causes had earned him the recognition and appreciation of city leaders.

Kadama also pointed out Kyemba’s role in mobilizing Rotarians to support health, education, and other social causes, endearing him to the Jinja community. Bernard Mbayo, the Speaker of Jinja City Council, revealed that both political leaders and technocrats had come to a consensus to designate Radio Road as Henry Kyemba Road. He noted that renaming the road might temporarily inconvenience land and business owners there, but it is a meaningful step in honoring an esteemed figure in society.

Henry Kyemba is renowned for his selfless service in key post-colonial governments, including that of Apollo Milton Obote, Idi Amin Dada, and the current government led by Yoweri Museveni. He is further celebrated for his book, “State of Blood,” which exposed the atrocities committed by Idi Amin before the United Nations, leading to international condemnation.

Daudi Migereko, a friend and former Butembe Member of Parliament, shared that Kyemba was working on another book at the time of his passing. Efforts are being made to collaborate with Kyemba’s family to ensure the publication of this book to convey his meaningful message to the world.

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