First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga has called for renewed government action to resolve historical injustices affecting Uganda’s Nubian community, saying the legacy of the late Gen. Moses Ali should inspire efforts to address grievances that have remained unsettled for generations.
Speaking during a parliamentary tribute to Gen. Ali, Kadaga praised the former Deputy Prime Minister for his dedication to documenting the history of the Nubian people and fighting for greater recognition of their identity, culture and contribution to Uganda’s development.
Kadaga said Uganda had made progress in correcting some historical inequalities through the 1995 Constitution, which formally recognised communities that had previously faced exclusion. She noted that the recognition of the Nubians was among the important steps taken to promote equality and national inclusion.
The government leader urged Parliament to preserve and promote Gen. Ali’s historical work, saying his writings provide valuable insight into the origins, migration patterns and settlement of Nubian communities, while also highlighting their struggles for acceptance and belonging.
She described Gen. Moses Ali as a rare leader who combined political experience with humility and discipline. Kadaga recalled his years of service in government and Parliament, saying he maintained respect and calmness even during difficult political debates.
However, Kadaga used the occasion to highlight unresolved complaints from Nubians who lost property following the 1979 political changes that ended Idi Amin’s rule. She said many community members lost businesses, vehicles, bank savings and other assets, with some claims still unresolved decades later.
Kadaga questioned why Nubians who suffered losses during the same turbulent period have not received similar attention given to other groups whose properties were affected. She said many affected individuals continue seeking solutions, including the recovery of lost accounts and assets.
She appealed to the government to take meaningful steps toward addressing the outstanding concerns, saying justice for the Nubian community would be an important part of Gen. Moses Ali’s enduring legacy. Kadaga said honouring his memory should go beyond tributes and include efforts to resolve the issues he spent years highlighting.
