The Ugandan advertising and creative industry came together in a moving memorial service on Friday, September 5, to pay tribute to the late Frank Muthusi, a towering figure whose visionary leadership and mentorship transformed the sector for nearly two decades.
Held at Fireworks Advertising headquarters—where Muthusi served as Group CEO until his passing on August 19, 2024—the service drew colleagues, industry peers, close friends, and family in a heartfelt celebration of a man remembered for his humility, generosity, and enduring professional legacy.
More than a moment of remembrance, the event marked the official launch of the Frank Muthusi Foundation, a new initiative established to advance his lifelong passions: youth empowerment, leadership development, and creative excellence.
The foundation also announced its first major activity—an inaugural thanksgiving dinner and fundraiser to be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, at Saladin Media Offices in Kampala.
Funds raised will go toward programs that continue Muthusi’s work in nurturing young talent and promoting innovation within Uganda’s creative economy.
In an emotional tribute, Rommel Jasi, current Chairman of the Uganda Advertising Association (UAA), reflected on Muthusi’s transformative tenure as UAA Chairman.
“Frank is gone, but the legacy continues,” Jasi said. “He was a force who set the stage for what’s next. Through this Foundation, we will keep his mission alive—not just for the industry, but for every life he touched.”
Denise Kayiraba, Business Unit Head – PR at Brainchild Burson, who worked closely with Muthusi, described him as a mentor who empowered others to grow, learn, and lead without fear.
“Frank believed in progress over perfection. He gave people space to evolve,” she said. “He nurtured talent with patience and built confidence in those around him. His legacy is part of who we are today.”
The memorial service also included a powerful sermon delivered by Pastor Henry Mugisha, Founder and Team Leader of Community Life, who urged attendees to reflect on the purpose of their lives and the impact they leave behind.
“The best way to have a life worth living is to have a death worth dying,” Pastor Mugisha said.
“Frank’s life mattered, and his remembrance shows the power of legacy. Ask yourself—what will you do to be remembered like Frank?”
He praised Fireworks Advertising for hosting the event, noting that remembrance is not just honourable but foundational to long-term success.
“Organizations that remember their own are the ones that thrive,” he added.
Paul Mwirigi, Managing Director at Capital One Group and a close friend, offered a personal reflection on Muthusi’s passions beyond the boardroom—highlighting his love for sports, community building, and mentoring young professionals.
“Frank was a good human being. He saw potential where others saw problems. Whether in board meetings or on the football field, he showed up with heart and purpose,” Mwirigi said.
As the sector continues to feel the weight of his absence, the memorial served not only as a moment of collective mourning but also as a rallying point for continuity.
The upcoming thanksgiving dinner on September 12 is expected to unite leading voices from the advertising, media, and creative sectors in support of a Foundation designed to carry Frank Muthusi’s torch forward.
Through the work of the Frank Muthusi Foundation, his spirit of mentorship, excellence, and service is set to inspire future generations.
