The Ugandan Parliament convened a special session on Tuesday to honor the memory of former Minister Henry Kisaja Magumba Kyemba, who passed away last week at the age of 84. Kyemba succumbed to a diabetes-related ailment at URO Care health facility in Kampala. He served as the Health Minister from 1974 to 1977 before fleeing to exile in the United Kingdom.
During his career, Kyemba contributed significantly to Uganda’s civil service, serving for a decade. He is best known for his memoir titled “The State of Blood: The Inside Story of Idi Amin,” which offers an insider’s perspective on the crimes committed by the government during that era. The book has been a key reference point for students studying Uganda’s contemporary political history.
Several prominent figures paid tribute to Kyemba during the parliamentary session. Dr. James Nsaba Buturo, former Ethics Minister, praised Kyemba as an upright man who was dedicated to public service and remained humble despite his high office. Inspector General of Government (IGG) Betty Kamya also lauded Kyemba as a distinguished career civil servant, emphasizing his commitment to public service and his lack of involvement in any scandals. She encouraged young politicians and ministers to emulate his legacy and make him a role model.
Henry Kyemba’s educational background included attending local primary schools and graduating from Busoga College Mwiri. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in History at Makerere University in 1957. Additionally, he held a Master’s degree in history from Northwestern University, Evanston, and a certificate in African studies from the same university.
Kyemba’s contributions also extended to the growth of the Rotary International Movement in Uganda. He became a Charter Member of the Source of Nile Rotary Club in 1987, and the movement expanded to include approximately 400 clubs by 2023, under his leadership.
The parliamentary tribute celebrated Kyemba’s outstanding contributions to the nation and his dedication to serving Uganda in various capacities.
