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President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has directed the Ministry of Finance to compensate families of students who were killed in the 1998 Kichwamba Technical College attack by Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) terrorists.

In a letter addressed to Finance Minister Matia Kasaija, the President stated that despite legal limitations on claims due to the passage of time, he was exercising his powers to authorize an ex gratia payment of UGX 15 million to each affected family.

“I use my powers as President for ex-gratia payment to the families. Each should be paid Shs 15 million, given the long time since the incident happened. The Ministry of Finance should budget for this money,” the letter reads.

The president’s directive follows a letter received in July 2024 regarding compensation concerns.

While the Attorney General had indicated that the statute of limitations no longer allowed for such claims, Museveni overruled this on humanitarian grounds.

The compensation will benefit families of the 80 students who were brutally murdered when ADF rebels stormed Kichwamba Technical College in Kabarole District on June 8, 1998.

The attackers set dormitories ablaze, burning students alive, and abducted over 100 others. The massacre remains one of the darkest chapters in Uganda’s history.

A Historical Perspective: The 1998 Kichwamba Attack and Its Impact

At the time of the Kichwamba massacre, Col. (Rtd) Steven Basaliza was a serving officer in the army. In the aftermath of the attack, he played a significant role in mobilizing Wanaichi (civilians) alongside the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to eliminate ADF insurgents.

His efforts in securing the region earned him widespread recognition and respect from the people.

Due to public demand and pressure from the community, Basaliza was persuaded to join politics. His reputation as a decisive leader in the fight against terrorism led to his unanimous election as Burahya County Member of Parliament in 2001.

He became popularly known as “OMUDUMII” (Commander) for his leadership and commitment to the security of his people.

Former MP Hails President’s Directive

Hon. Col. (Rtd) Steven Basaliza has commended President Museveni for his decision to compensate the affected families.

“Do you know how concerned I was? The President has finally acted. As a former MP at the time, I salute His Excellency for this and for hearing our request,” he said.

He also expressed gratitude for the President’s intervention in another ADF-related incident.

“I also thank him for replacing the truck that was burnt by ADF after I requested the NRM National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Kyankwanzi in 2005 when I was MP for Burahya,” Basaliza added.

The lorry, which was provided by President Museveni in 2005, has since played a critical role in ensuring the safety and functionality of Uganda Technical College Kichwamba. Ever since the attack, the institution has enjoyed security, with the UPDF maintaining a protective presence.

Over the years, the college has undergone significant transformation. Under the leadership of former Ministers of Education, Hon. Jessica Alupo and later First Lady Hon. Janet Museveni, the institution has received infrastructural upgrades, modern equipment, and improved academic programs.

There is growing anticipation that Uganda Technical College Kichwamba could soon transition into a full-fledged university, further cementing its role as a leading technical institution in the country.

Meanwhile, the President’s letter was copied to the Vice President, Prime Minister, Minister of Education, Attorney General, and Members of Parliament from the Tooro-Rwenzori region.

The Finance Ministry is now expected to work on the implementation of the directive, ensuring the funds are allocated and disbursed to the affected families.