A Green Shirt Stole the Show at the Grand Celebration of Uganda’s Most Famous Octogenarian. 

(Nakaseke) – In Uganda, when you hit the big 80, the cake is not the only thing that takes center stage. At President Yoweri Museveni’s 80th birthday celebration in Kijjaguzo Parish, Semuto Town Council, Nakaseke District, Ugandans were treated to a festival of pomp, prayers, and some serious wardrobe debates. It was not your typical birthday bash – it was a fusion of state matters, divine intercessions, and a dash of fashion commentary.

Lime Green Shirt Sparks Birthday Buzz

In what could only be described as a moment straight out of a Ugandan radio morning show gossip segment, the President waltzed into the event at 11:45 am wearing a lime green shirt, not his usual plain white shirt. The sartorial choice had attendees murmuring, “Eh, surely, the birthday boy wants to remind us he’s still as fresh as a village avocado!” Some could be heard whispering, “Is he copying Kabaka Mutesa I’s vibrant fashion sense?” while others joked that the green shirt was a subtle nod to his agricultural policies.

But it wasn’t just a parade of outfits. The party was as political as it was spiritual. Vice President Jessica Alupo, Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, and a whole convoy of ministers and ex-prime ministers were present to cheer on the man who has been leading the nation since “back when mobile phones were science fiction.” Even Moses Kigongo, NRM’s Vice Chairperson, showed up to remind everyone he is still around. No surprise there, he is almost as perennial as Museveni.

On the spiritual side, it was a full house. Religious leaders from across Uganda, from the retired Bishop of Luweero to the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Mubajje, and even the Archbishop of the Orthodox Church gathered to offer prayers and thanks.

Leading the prayer session was Archbishop Anthony Zziwa, chairperson of the Episcopal Conference, who decided to read from Psalm 90:10, reminding everyone that 80 years is a rare blessing. And when you have been president or rebel leader for most of those 80 years, it is something that will definitely get people talking! Zziwa’s message was clear: this birthday wasn’t just about Museveni, but about the journey Uganda has taken since the 1980s, back when bush wars were the order of the day, and “hiding in the bush” was less of a phrase and more of a reality.

Like any good host, Museveni used the occasion to hand out some ‘gifts’ of his own, though instead of presents, they came in the form of promises and reminders. On the persistent land issues, he took the chance to remind residents of Luweero that landlords have no business evicting anyone, as the Lands Act protects bonafide occupants. “You are safe,” he essentially said. “But pay your busulu (ground rent) and don’t make me come back here.”

Then there was the bit about education. In true Museveni fashion, he admitted that Universal Primary and Secondary Education still have some “challenges.” But like a mechanic working on an old Land Rover, he assured Ugandans that he was “streamlining” the system – just don’t expect a complete overhaul overnight. He was clear though: extra fees in government schools? “Stop that nonsense.”

For a man known for his long speeches, Museveni held back this time, saying he was not going to quarrel on his birthday. “Today we are celebrating and thanking the Lord,” he said with a grin. But like a parent threatening to discipline you when visitors leave, he promised to return to Luweero to address some more “serious issues.” And then he cut the cake – because no true birthday function is complete without cake.

After the festivities at Kijjaguzo Parish, Museveni hosted a select group of lucky guests at Kawumu State Lodge in Makulubita Sub-county, about 10 kilometers away. One wonders if he gave out more cake or just another round of “bona fide occupant” speeches.

Key Highlights of Museveni’s 80th Birthday Bash