President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has directed the Ministry of Finance to compensate families of students killed in the 1998 Kichwamba Technical College attack by Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels.
In a letter to Finance Minister Matia Kasaija, the President acknowledged the legal constraints due to the passage of time but exercised his executive powers to authorize an ex gratia payment of UGX 15 million per affected family.
“I use my powers as President to authorize an ex gratia payment to the families. Each should receive UGX 15 million, given the long time since the incident occurred. The Ministry of Finance should budget for this money,” Museveni’s letter reads.
This directive follows a letter received in July 2024 highlighting concerns over compensation. While the Attorney General had indicated that the statute of limitations no longer allowed for such claims, Museveni overruled this on humanitarian grounds.
Remembering the 1998 Kichwamba Massacre
The compensation will benefit families of the 80 students who were brutally murdered when ADF insurgents 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 tragedies in Uganda’s history.
At the time, Col. (Rtd) Steven Basaliza was serving in the army and played a key role in mobilizing civilians alongside the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) to combat ADF insurgents. His efforts in restoring security earned him widespread recognition, leading to his election as Burahya County MP in 2001. Known as “OMUDUMII” (Commander), Basaliza became a respected figure in the fight against terrorism.
Former MP Commends Museveni’s Directive
Hon. Col. (Rtd) Steven Basaliza welcomed President Museveni’s decision, expressing relief that the long-standing concerns had been addressed.
“I was deeply concerned. The President has finally acted. As a former MP, I salute His Excellency for this and for listening to our plea,” he said.
Basaliza also thanked Museveni for past interventions, recalling how he successfully lobbied for the replacement of a truck burned by ADF insurgents. The President granted his request during the NRM National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Kyankwanzi in 2005. The truck has since played a vital role in maintaining operations at Uganda Technical College Kichwamba.
Kichwamba’s Transformation and Future Prospects
Over the years, Uganda Technical College Kichwamba has seen significant improvements. Under the leadership of former Education Ministers Hon. Jessica Alupo and First Lady Hon. Janet Museveni, the institution has received modern equipment, infrastructure upgrades, and enhanced academic programs.
There is growing anticipation that the college may soon transition into a full-fledged university, further cementing its role as a premier technical institution in Uganda.
Meanwhile, President Museveni’s directive 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 facilitate the compensation process and ensure funds are disbursed to the affected families.
