Luwero District was once again filled with emotion, gratitude, and a renewed sense of recognition as State Minister for Luwero Triangle and Rwenzori Region, Hon. Alice Kaboyo, commissioned yet another home for a fallen liberation hero. On Thursday, 13th November 2025, the minister arrived in Kalaasa to hand over a newly completed house to the family of the late Ssalongo Lurika Ibrahim, marking the 11th veteran residence constructed under the Government’s ongoing compensation and welfare programme. What began as a promise to honor the country’s 1981–1986 liberation contributors is steadily turning into reality, with each new home standing as a symbol of remembrance, dignity, and justice long overdue.

This week alone, Kaboyo commissioned four houses, all fully funded by the Ministry of Luwero–Rwenzori under the Office of the Prime Minister. The beneficiaries included families of the late Nakabaale Ssempa-Kyerezi, the late Yoram Kisuze of Namusaale in Kapeeka, the late Kaggwa Issa Sserunjogi of Kangave in Masulita, and finally, the late Ssalongo Lurika Ibrahim of Kalaasa. With these additions, 11 out of the 28 planned houses have been completed and handed over, a milestone that both relocated families and local leaders have described as a refreshing demonstration of the Government’s commitment to upholding the legacy of the liberation struggle.

Addressing the veterans gathered for the ceremony, Hon. Kaboyo acknowledged the frustrations and delays that many families have experienced over the years. She promised that every veteran who has not yet received their Kasiimo compensation would be attended to, insisting that no one would be forgotten. Kaboyo went further to reassure residents that road improvements in the area were on her agenda, vowing to follow up on the matter and ensure that overall community welfare continues to improve alongside the veterans’ support initiatives. She echoed the government’s intention to enhance the veterans’ budget so that remaining beneficiaries can also receive meaningful assistance in appreciation of their service to Uganda.

In her speech, Kaboyo also turned her attention to the younger generation, urging children of veterans to draw inspiration from the patience, endurance, and deeper sense of duty demonstrated by their fathers and grandfathers. She reminded them that many of these men waited for decades without losing faith, holding firm to the hope that their sacrifices would someday be recognized by the very nation they helped liberate. It was a call that resonated strongly among the families present, many of whom have grown up hearing stories of the war that shaped Uganda’s modern history.

The veterans in Makulubita, represented by Chairman Ssebaggala Kizza Denis, expressed gratitude to President Museveni and the minister for their unwavering commitment to improving the welfare of liberation heroes. However, Ssebaggala also issued a candid reminder to fellow veterans about the political choices made during past election cycles, noting that some had been misled into supporting other political parties. He appealed to veterans to remain loyal in the upcoming elections as a gesture of appreciation to the President for continuing to support them even decades after the conflict.

Kaboyo later travelled to Kangave in Makulubita to commission another house under the Civilian Veterans Housing Programme, this one built for the family of the late Kaggwa Issa Sserunjogi. Speaking at the handover, she emphasized the national importance of keeping liberation heroes’ memories alive. She highlighted the remarkable transformation Uganda has experienced since 1986, from insecurity and economic collapse to an era characterized by greater stability and progress. She described the veterans as the pillars on whose sacrifice the country’s development has been built.

Brig. Jacob Asiimwe, who accompanied the minister, applauded her determination to fulfill the Government’s pledges. He confirmed that out of the 28 houses promised, 11 had already been constructed and commissioned, with more steadily progressing. He urged the remaining veterans to remain patient, reminding them that the Government is committed to completing all pending cases. Asiimwe also advised the veterans to stay focused, resist being swayed by short-term incentives, and continue supporting leaders who prioritize their well-being—calling on them to vote for NRM candidates at all levels.

The handovers this week left communities across Luwero and Nakaseke both relieved and optimistic. Each newly built house stands not only as shelter but as a powerful acknowledgment of lives dedicated to the liberation of Uganda. And as construction continues, so does the promise that the nation has not forgotten the courage, resilience, and loyalty of its heroes.