Muhammad Ssegirinya, better known as “Mr. Updates,” was a charismatic and often controversial Ugandan politician who represented Kawempe North Constituency in the 11th Parliament. His life was a classic Ugandan rags to riches tale, peppered with bold promises and the unrelenting humor that defined his persona.
Ssegirinya’s journey to financial comfort was one marked by hard work, sacrifices and political maneuvering. But how much was he worth at the time of his untimely demise on January 9, 2025?
Ssegirinya’s wealth was not defined by lavish mansions or fleets of luxury cars. Instead, his investments in the community, such as a hospital and ambulances, highlighted his commitment to Kawempe North.
Sources of Income
1. Salary as a Member of Parliament (2021–2025)
Ugandan MPs earn a basic monthly salary of UGX 11 million. However, with allowances for fuel, mileage, committee sittings, and travel, the total monthly take-home is estimated at UGX 35 million.
Income during MP tenure:
- Monthly Salary: UGX 35 million
- Duration: 48 months (4 years)
- Total: UGX 1.68 billion
2. Salary as a Lord Councillor (2016–2021)
Before joining Parliament, Ssegirinya served as a Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Lord Councillor. His monthly earnings during this period were UGX 5.5 million.
Income during KCCA tenure:
- Monthly Salary: UGX 5.5 million
- Duration: 60 months (5 years)
- Total: UGX 330 million
3. Additional Assets
Ssegirinya was known for his generosity. Despite his personal struggles, he established a community hospital valued at UGX 200 million. Additionally, he owned a modest Toyota Premio (2004 model), estimated at UGX 25 million.
Net Worth at the Time of Death
| Source | UGX | USD (1 USD = 3,700 UGX) |
|---|---|---|
| MP Salary (2021–2025) | 1,680,000,000 | 454,054 |
| KCCA Salary (2016–2021) | 330,000,000 | 89,189 |
| Community Hospital | 200,000,000 | 54,054 |
| Toyota Premio (2004 model) | 25,000,000 | 6,757 |
| Total | 2,235,000,000 | 604,054 |
Philanthropy vs Wealth
Ssegirinya’s net worth wasn’t purely about personal accumulation. He famously refused to spend his UGX 200 million car grant on a luxury vehicle, opting instead to donate the funds to community development groups. While this decision won him applause from his constituents, it also left him without a flashy “monster ride” commonly associated with MPs.
While his Toyota Premio served him humbly, his hospital and ambulances stood as testaments to his commitment to Kawempe North’s well being.
The Jail and Health Costs
However, his financial standing was likely impacted by the 524 days he spent in prison and the subsequent medical expenses for treatment in Uganda, Kenya, and the Netherlands. These challenges underscore the difficulties faced by Ugandan politicians balancing public service with personal adversities.
Ssegirinya’s net worth might not rival Uganda’s big fish, but his impact far outweighed his bank balance. If wealth were measured in love from constituents, Ssegirinya would undoubtedly top the Forbes list! From using a Premio instead of a “monster ride” to his grassroots hospital, “Mr. Updates” lived like a true man of the people: simple, relatable and always ready to serve.
Rest in peace, Ssegirinya. Your legacy, like your humor, will live on.
