By Nyiramahoro Aphia, Guest Writer
Kisoro District is in a celebratory mood following President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s decision to recall veteran statesman Dr. Philemon Mateke from retirement and appoint him as Senior Presidential Advisor on Regional Cooperation. This appointment is a powerful message of trust, love, and continued commitment from the President toward Kisoro and its people.
Community leaders, youth groups, elders, and NRM cadres across the district have warmly welcomed the news, praising the President for recognizing Dr. Mateke’s vast experience and lifelong contribution to Uganda. The appointment is timely and meaningful, coming at a moment when Kisoro continues to grow in political importance and development priority. His disciplined, loyal, and hardworking cadreship and the continued supporting government programs.
Dr. Mateke’s biography tells a story of resilience, service, and unmatched dedication to public duty. His career began at Makerere University, where he served as a lecturer in the Department of History from 1970 to 1977. Those who studied under him recall a sharp, articulate, and principled scholar whose passion for teaching laid the foundation for the many leadership positions he would later hold.
His transition into active politics saw him elected as Member of Parliament for three terms, a clear demonstration of trust from his constituents. Across the decades, he navigated Uganda’s complex political landscapes with calmness and discipline, earning respect from leaders, colleagues, and the communities he served.
Dr. Mateke has held multiple ministerial positions. From 1980 to 1985, he served as Minister of State for Education, contributing to early policy formation and the strengthening of Uganda’s education system. He later returned to cabinet as Minister of State for Labour from 1996 to 2001, where he helped shape labour policies during a critical stage of Uganda’s economic transformation. His most recent ministerial post was Minister of State for Regional Cooperation from 2015 to 2021, a role in which he represented Uganda on key regional platforms, strengthened diplomatic relations, and supported peace-building efforts.
He is also one of the leaders who played a historic role in shaping Uganda’s constitutional framework. In 1994, he served as a Delegate to the Constituent Assembly, taking part in the drafting of the 1995 Constitution. The following year, he was appointed Commissioner of Parliament, contributing to legislative leadership and institutional development.
At the local level, Dr. Mateke served as District Chairman of Kisoro from 2001 to 2010, overseeing major development programs, guiding administration reforms, and mobilizing communities for government initiatives. His leadership extended to the church, where he served as Head of Laity for 10 years, promoting unity, service, and strengthening the involvement of Christians in church development.
Within the NRM, Dr. Mateke’s influence remains significant. For over 10 years, he served as Chairman of the District Executive Committee, offering political direction, mobilizing support for national programs, and nurturing young leaders in the party.
With such a rich background, his return to national duty is both expected and justified. I believe Dr. Mateke’s deep understanding of regional diplomacy and governance will help strengthen Uganda’s position in East Africa and beyond.
This is in addition of the highlights that are ongoing and completed infrastructural developments that reflect President Museveni’s love for the district. The completed Kabale–Kisoro road has transformed travel and trade, opening up the region to business and tourism. New projects such as the Kisoro–Muhabura road are under construction, and several other government programs like PDM, Youth livelihood and others continue to unfold, bringing jobs, better services, and improved connectivity. The President has already shown great commitment to uplifting Kisoro, and with Dr. Mateke back in government, even more progress is expected.
This appointment may also partly serve as comfort following the painful loss of Dr. Mateke’s daughter, Hon. Sarah Nyirabashitsi Mateke, the former State Minister for Defense and Veteran Affairs, who died in September last year. Hon. Sarah, who took on a national leadership role soon after her father retired from cabinet, was widely respected for her humility, hard work, and dedication to serving the people. Her passing was a major blow to both her family and the entire district. The new appointment, therefore say, may help restore strength and confidence to a family that has given so much to national service.
President Museveni’s decision to recall Dr. Mateke is more than an appointment—it is a renewed promise. A promise of development, recognition, and continued partnership between the district and the national leadership. I am optimistic that Dr. Mateke, known for his discipline, experience, and calm approach to leadership, will once again deliver outstanding results in his new role.
As celebrations continue across the district, one message stands clear: Kisoro appreciates the President, stands firmly behind Dr. Mateke, and looks forward to a brighter, more connected future under his renewed national service. The writer is Nyiramahoro Aphia- a product of Kisoro & can be reached for direct feedback via aphiabigira@gmail.com. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
