President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has honored the late Rt. Hon. Eriya Kategaya as a trailblazer in Uganda’s patriotic politics. Kategaya, who served as Uganda’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of East African Community Affairs, passed away on March 2, 2013.
Speaking at a memorial service held at Kololo, where he was joined by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, the President described Kategaya as a steadfast advocate for nationalism and principled leadership.
“Kategaya was the pioneer of the politics of patriotism—the politics of loving Uganda,” President Museveni stated. He also warned against identity-based politics, which he described as harmful to national progress.
“In the 1960s, it was Kategaya who helped us recognize the flaws in the politics of identity, as practiced by UPC, DP, and Kabaka Yekka. We tried to influence the situation, but people were not listening, which eventually led to the collapse of 1971, when Amin took over,” he recalled.
The President urged leaders to appreciate individual strengths and maintain clear objectives in their governance.
“Kategaya had a different approach, but he introduced us to networks and contacts we didn’t previously have,” he noted. “When you are working towards a mission, things become easier. With Kategaya and those of us who understood our purpose, politics was about objectives, not personal gain.”
During the memorial, two books were launched in Kategaya’s honor. One featured tributes from 20 distinguished individuals covering various themes, while the other, Reflections of Resilience, was a memoir by Joan Kategaya. Albert Gomes Mugumya, the Consultant Editor of these works, encouraged Ugandans to document their stories for future generations. He also introduced a group of children of former Uganda People’s Movement (UPM) members.
Vice President H.E. Jessica Alupo praised Kategaya as a dedicated nationalist and Pan-Africanist who served Uganda with integrity.
“We have gathered here today to celebrate the life and achievements of Rt. Hon. Eriya Kategaya,” she said, highlighting his role in guiding the Cabinet on strategic policies that shaped the nation.
Mrs. Joan Kategaya, the late Kategaya’s widow, expressed gratitude for the support her family has received in the years following his passing.
“God’s protection has surrounded us, shielding and guiding us through every season,” said Mrs. Kategaya, who serves as a Senior Presidential Advisor on Veteran Affairs. “I am grateful to God for His steadfast love and to our friends and family for their unwavering support throughout this journey.”
Dr. Juliet Kategaya, a daughter of the late Kategaya, also extended her appreciation to President Museveni and the government for their continued support.
“My father was a passionate and strategic community leader who taught us the importance of planning ahead,” she said, thanking the President and First Lady for their unwavering commitment to the family over the years.
