President Yoweri Museveni has disclosed that First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni narrowly survived a serious health crisis earlier this year, describing the ordeal as a direct attack by “Sitaane” that nearly claimed her life. In a deeply personal birthday tribute celebrating her 78th birthday, the President revealed that the frightening episode occurred on March 21, 2026, but said divine intervention and dedicated medical professionals helped save her.The revelation has shed light on months of public speculation surrounding the First Lady’s reduced public appearances.
While Museveni deliberately avoided revealing the exact nature of the illness, he emphasized that the situation was severe and life-threatening. He expressed gratitude to God and the doctors who played a role in her recovery, noting that Janet is now steadily regaining her strength.In his emotional message, Museveni portrayed the incident as a spiritual battle that ultimately ended in victory. He wrote that “Sitaane” had launched an attack against Janet’s life but failed in the attempt.
The President linked the date of the health scare to a historic victory during Uganda’s liberation struggle, suggesting that March 21 has always carried significance for him and the Resistance movement.The President used the occasion to reflect on the remarkable journey he has shared with Janet over the decades. He recalled their unexpected reunion on Christmas Day in 1972 outside Nairobi’s Inter-Continental Hotel, a meeting he described as both accidental and miraculous. At the time, Uganda was under Idi Amin’s rule and Museveni was involved in underground efforts aimed at challenging the regime.According to Museveni, that chance encounter transformed the course of his life. Although the two had known each other years earlier while studying in Ntungamo, political turmoil had separated them. Their reunion eventually blossomed into a partnership that produced a family and provided him with support during some of the most difficult periods of Uganda’s history.
The President paid special tribute to Janet’s sacrifices during the National Resistance Army bush war, noting that she carried the burden of raising their children while he remained in active resistance. He praised her resilience, saying she stood firm through years of uncertainty, exile, and political struggle, ensuring that the family remained united despite the enormous challenges they faced.Museveni also highlighted the First Lady’s contributions beyond family life. He commended her humanitarian work through the Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans (UWESO), her involvement in faith-based initiatives, and her role in the growth of the National Resistance Movement.
Over the years, Janet has become one of Uganda’s most recognizable public figures, serving both in government and community development programs.Concluding his tribute, the President offered a prayer for long life and good health, expressing hope that both he and Janet would live to celebrate their 100th birthdays. He also shared his desire to witness the realization of the East African Federation, describing it as a historic project that would secure Africa’s future. As Janet Museveni continues her recovery, Museveni’s revelation has drawn national attention to the resilience of a woman who has stood at the center of Uganda’s political and social landscape for nearly four decades.
