The Rukungiri District Council’s special sitting on Saturday, 18th October 2025, to honor the late Hon. Francis Ndazaarwe, District Councilor representing elders, has reignited debate on the state of elderly welfare and access to healthcare in the district.
Ndazaarwe, 74, passed away in Kampala after a prolonged six-and-a-half-year battle with prostate cancer, a condition many elderly men across Uganda face silently due to limited screening, inadequate treatment facilities, and high medical costs. His death has amplified calls from leaders for increased government investment in geriatric care and non-communicable disease management at the district level.
The memorial session, held at the Rukungiri District Headquarters, attracted political leaders, security officials, and community members, including PFF parliamentary aspirant and former District Speaker Ingrid Turinawe. In a rare gesture of inclusivity, District Speaker James Turyamuboona suspended several council rules, including those on language, seating, and dress code, to allow public participation, signalling the community’s deep attachment to the late councilor.
A motion of condolence moved by Workers’ Councilor and Education Secretary Cledonia Musiimenta emphasized Ndazaarwe’s dedication to community development. However, several councilors used the platform to challenge the district leadership to honor his legacy not just in words but through tangible action.
CUE IN MUSIIMENTA……ON THE MOTION……ENG//
Councilors including Milly Mbabazi (Elders Representative), Albert Mugisha (Buyanja Sub-county), and Michael Byarugaba (Western Division) Eulogized Ndazaarwe as a disciplined and time-conscious leader, urging council to adopt structured mentorship programs where retired public servants can continue advising local governments.
District LCV Chairperson Geoffrey Kyomukama described the late councilor as a “physically and intellectually smart NRM supporter,” but acknowledged that many devoted leaders like him retire into poverty or succumb to preventable illnesses due to weak post-service support systems.
CUE IN KYOMUKAMA…..ON NDAZAARWE…..RR//
Ndazaarwe, a retired health worker who last served as District Health Educator at Rukungiri Health Centre IV, leaves behind 12 children. His burial is scheduled for Sunday, 19th October in Rusheshe, Buhunga Sub-county.
As the district bids farewell, many are asking: Will leaders act on the health and welfare concerns that Ndazaarwe’s life and death represent or will the tribute end as mere protocol?
