In a tribute to the late Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Sarah Mateke, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has emphasised the importance of health vigilance and regular check-ups for all Ugandans.
Prior to being appointed Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Mateke served as Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs.
The Minister who was also the Woman Member of Parliament for Kisoro District, breathed her last on Saturday, September 7, 2024.
Speaking at a special memorial event held at Parliament, President Museveni honoured Hon. Mateke for her contribution towards Uganda and reflected on her calm demeanour and thoughtful approach.
“I have come to express my solidarity with Dr. Mateke’s family and to acknowledge the commendable work she was undertaking. We mourn her loss and extend our deepest sympathies to her family. May her soul rest in eternal peace,” President Museveni said.
“Although my interactions with her were limited, I was struck by her calm and composed nature. She did not exhibit the sensitivity or aggressiveness seen in some, but instead, she was measured and deliberate in her words,” he added.
The President highlighted Hon. Mateke’s role in a committee studying the situation in Congo, which included notable figures such as Gen. Taban Amin.
“As a representative of Kisoro, Hon. Mateke’s careful and thoughtful contributions were highly valued. It is a significant loss,” President Museveni remarked.
“In her short time with us, she made a meaningful impact and became a role model for those who knew her in Kisoro. We were fortunate that she avoided the plane crash that claimed the life of Aronda; however, her passing still leaves a void,” he added.
On the other hand, President Museveni urged all Ugandans to take their health seriously.
“The loss of any individual creates a gap that is difficult to fill. I encourage all cadres to prioritise their health, undergo regular check-ups, and rest when needed. It is crucial to be mindful of our well-being to prevent such tragedies,” he said.
“As fighters, we lose people frequently when we are fighting the enemy; they either kill us or we kill them. However, we try to avoid unnecessary losses because anyone who does creates a gap on our side. That’s why fighters should also look after their lives, not just as their own but for all of us. When you go, you leave us with a problem: how shall we fill your gap? That’s why you should carefully check your health. In this case, it was good that she went to check, but it was a bit too late. Therefore, we appeal to all cadres to be more vigilant. It’s not only your family that will lose; please take care. For instance, with Aronda, who died on the plane, I didn’t know he had a medical problem.”
On the other hand, the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among expressed her heartfelt gratitude and condolences to the President following the passing of Hon. Mateke.
“On behalf of Parliament and the Mateke family, we thank you, Your Excellency, for your unwavering support,” she noted.
“When Hon. Sarah passed away, you reached out to me to understand the circumstances, and your compassion was evident. Losing such a young and promising member is profoundly saddening,” she added.
The Speaker further noted that this support was not the first but a continued gesture of solidarity, having been witnessed on several occasions in the past.
“We extend our condolences to Your Excellency and to the Mateke family for this tremendous loss. Sarah was a loving, down-to-earth individual and a unifying force. Her absence will be deeply felt,” she asserted.
In attendance were the Vice President, H.E Jessica Alupo, the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, Members of Parliament, the Family of the Late Hon. Mateke, among other mourners.
