Hon. Wilson Muruli Mukasa the Minister of Public Service, has emphasized the vital importance of unity among Christians and the broader Ugandan community as a cornerstone for the nation’s development and progress.
Minister Mukasa made these remarks today at St. James Kijuguta Church of Uganda in Kijuguta Ward, Kabale Municipality’s Northern Division, during a thanksgiving and memorial service honoring the late Rutebarika and Theodora Rushaju.
Minister Mukasa also represented former Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda, who was a close friend of the late Rushaju.
The service, which drew hundreds of Christians and well-wishers, was presided over by Reverend Canon Erasmus Turyatunga, the former Secretary of the Diocese of Kigezi, representing Bishop Rt. Rev Gaddie Akanjuna.
The late Rutebarika Fred Rushaju, who passed away on July 2nd, 1991, and his wife, Jane Theodora Rushaju, who died on November 10th, 1998, were commemorated for their significant contributions to both the religious and political landscapes of Kigezi and Uganda.
Rutebarika’s distinguished career included serving as the GISO in Kisoro in 1986, Kashambya in 1987, and later as the DISO in Kabale and Mukono District before being promoted to Assistant District Administrator, currently known as Resident District Commissioner of Nakasongola District in 1989.
In his address as well as representing Rt Hon. Rugunda, Minister Mukasa highlighted the late Rushaju’s role in the formation of Nakasongola District, commending the family, particularly the children, for preserving and upholding their father’s legacy. “As Christians, we are called to be agents of unity and love. We must work together with our fellows to build a harmonious and cohesive society,” the Minister stated, urging Christians to use their talents and skills to positively impact their communities.
Rev. Canon Erasmus Turyatunga, in his sermon, echoed the Minister’s call for unity and urged Christians to seek guidance from God, whom he described as the ultimate provider. “God is the provider of everything we need, from the air we breathe to the food we eat. Let us always seek His guidance and trust in His providence,” Rev. Turyatunga advised.
He encouraged the congregation to cultivate a personal relationship with God through prayer and other spiritual practices to overcome life’s challenges and find peace and direction.
The memorial service also served as a moment of reflection on the lives of the late Rutebarika and Theodora Rushaju. The late Theodora was particularly remembered as the visionary behind the inception of the St. James Kijuguta Choir. Rev. Canon Turyatunga praised the couple’s six children for their dedication to preserving their parents’ legacy and maintaining the positive impact of their name in society.
In a heartfelt tribute, Brian Rushaju, the son of the late Theodora, described his father as a man of selflessness, cooperation, and relentless work ethic—qualities that greatly benefited their family and the community.
“My father’s life was a testament to the power of hard work, cooperation, and selflessness. We will miss him dearly, but his memory will continue to guide us,” Brian shared, acknowledging the lasting inspiration his father’s legacy provides to their family.
He also expressed gratitude to the State House, and particularly President Museveni, for the scholarship that enabled him and his siblings to complete their studies.
Following the memorial service, Rev. Canon Turyatunga led the congregation in laying wreaths at the resting places of the late Rutebarika and Theodora Rushaju in Kijuguta.
ENDS////
