KAMPALA, Uganda
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has paid a heartfelt tribute to First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni as she celebrates her 78th birthday, praising her resilience, faith, dedication to family, and contribution to Uganda’s development and liberation struggle.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, President Museveni reflected on Mrs. Museveni’s life journey, thanking God for protecting her through childhood hardships, including the loss of her father, Mzee Edward Kataaha, in 1955, and guiding her to become a pillar of strength for both the family and the nation.
The President recounted their unexpected reunion on Christmas Day in 1972 outside Nairobi’s Inter-Continental Hotel, describing it as a “miraculous re-connection” after years of separation caused by Uganda’s political turmoil. He noted that the encounter laid the foundation for their family during a period when he was living in exile and actively involved in efforts to overthrow the regime of former Ugandan leader Idi Amin.
Museveni said the reunion eventually led to the birth of their four children and fifteen grandchildren, describing the family as one of God’s greatest blessings in his life.
The President also revealed that the First Lady survived a serious health scare on March 21, 2026, when she came under what he described as a major attack on her life. He credited God and medical professionals for saving her life and reported that she is recovering well.
He commended Mrs. Museveni for her role in raising their children during the difficult years of the National Resistance struggle between 1981 and 1986, when he was in the bush while she remained in exile caring for the family.
Beyond family life, President Museveni praised the First Lady’s contributions through the Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans (UWESO), her support for National Resistance Movement activities in Ntungamo, and her extensive religious and charitable work.
Looking ahead, the President expressed hope that both he and the First Lady would live to celebrate 100 years of age and witness the realization of the long-envisioned East African Federation, which he described as vital for safeguarding Africa’s future prosperity and security.
The message concluded with a prayer of thanksgiving and appreciation for the First Lady’s enduring service to her family, community, and country.
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