President Yoweri Museveni has praised the late Rev. Eliasaph Sserwadda for living a life that successfully blended Christian faith with practical work, describing him as a model believer who understood both the spiritual and material needs of society.
Rev. Sserwadda, who passed away last year, was the father of Col. Edith Nakalema Asizua, the Head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU).
The President’s message was delivered by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, during a memorial service and thanksgiving ceremony held at Kanyeganyegye, Kashari Sub-county, Mbarara District. The event also marked the near completion of a new church constructed in honor of Rev. Sserwadda’s legacy.
“He was not only a preacher of the Word of God, but also a skilled metal worker and fabricator. This was his omwooga, which enabled him to earn a living and support his family,” Museveni said.
The President noted that Rev. Sserwadda embodied the biblical principle of self-reliance, likening him to Jesus Christ and Apostle Paul, who combined spiritual ministry with practical labor.
“Alongside his priestly duties, he worked diligently with his hands to sustain himself,” Museveni added.
President Museveni also commended Rev. Sserwadda and his wife, Midresi Ndungi, for raising a disciplined, God-fearing family rooted in strong Christian values.
“Parents and guardians are the first teachers of children. What children see and hear at home shapes their lives. That is why the family remains the foundation of society,” he said.
He further noted that Rev. Sserwadda’s values—integrity, devotion to God, selflessness, and service—are reflected in his daughter, Col. Nakalema.
“These virtues have enabled her to make a patriotic contribution to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces and public service. I also commend her siblings for their service to the nation,” the President said.
Museveni concluded by thanking God for the life and legacy of Rev. Sserwadda, saying his commitment to God and the Church would continue to inspire generations.
The memorial prayers were led by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Rt. Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, who called on Ugandans to uphold love, unity, and peace.
Speaking at the service, Col. Nakalema described the occasion as one of thanksgiving rather than mourning.
“Time does not heal all wounds; it only teaches us how to carry the weight of loss. Today, we celebrate a man who was the compass and pillar of our family,” she said.
She described her late father as a loving provider, mentor, and servant leader who lived out the gospel daily.
“To many, he was a church leader and counselor. To me, he was the first person who taught me what it truly means to serve,” she said.
Col. Nakalema recalled that their home was always open to those in need, noting that Rev. Sserwadda treated everyone with compassion and Christian grace.
“He taught us that leadership is not about titles, but about the lives we touch and the souls we guide toward the light,” she said.
She added that her father was a man of integrity who valued truth and honor.
“In a world where values are often compromised, he taught me that your name is your most valuable currency,” she said.
Col. Nakalema revealed that one of her father’s long-held dreams was to see a new church built at Kanyeganyegye—a vision that has been realized through the Rev. Sserwadda Foundation.
“Although he did not live to see it completed, his vision lived on. Together with friends, we established the Sserwadda Foundation to honor his legacy,” she said.
The nearly completed church, valued at Shs1.3 billion, was funded entirely by friends of the Sserwadda family.
“It symbolizes hope, unity, and the belief that good works live beyond our time on earth,” she said, thanking supporters for their prayers and contributions.
The preacher of the day, former Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Rt. Rev. Henry Luke Orombi, urged believers to emulate Rev. Sserwadda’s faithfulness, obedience, and love for God.
“He was prayerful, sacrificial, and deeply committed to serving God. Whoever loves God will never perish,” Orombi said, while also calling for peace and reconciliation following the electoral period.
The Anglican Bishop of Central Buganda Diocese, Rt. Rev. Michael Lubowa, who ordained Rev. Sserwadda, described him as a true witness of Christ.
“He was loyal to his wife, loved his children equally, and was devoted to ministry. He was eager to learn, generous, and disciplined,” Bishop Lubowa said.
The service was attended by ministers, Members of Parliament, senior army and police officers, religious leaders, and other dignitaries.
