The Makerere University Secretary, Mr. David Kahundha Muhwezi, was recognized as one of the Visionaries in an awards ceremony presided over by Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi on 6th Dec. 2013 at the Serena Hotel in Kampala. The awards ceremony, the first of its kind, set out to recognize companies and individuals who have made/are making a contribution towards realization of Uganda’s Vision 2040. This vision, as stated by Government, sets out to achieve ‘A transformed society from a peasant to a modern and prosperous country within 30 years.’

Mr. Muhwezi was recognised for championing good governance at Makerere University. As the first Board Secretary of the Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS), he enforced compliance of contribution remittances to the Custodian and monitored the investment of funds by the Fund Managers. These efforts are highlighted in the Visionaries book; THE VISIONARIES OF UGANDA HAND BOOK, which was launched on the same day by the Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi.  His award certificate reads ‘In recognition of your outstanding contribution to the Nation’s Development. Your commitment towards the socio-economic transformation of Uganda has earned you this esteemed honour.’

“As the first Board Secretary, I did a lot to see that the scheme works. I also initiated the Governance Website <http://governance.mak.ac.ug> in Makerere University and I have used numerous channels to preach the ideals of good governance to both internal and external stakeholders of Makerere University,” he said in an interview about the recognition. Mr. Muhwezi worked in the Finance Department in various capacities since 1994, before rising to the position of University Secretary.

He however believes that the award is for the entire University. “It is not a Muhwezi achievement but the Institution’s. The efforts that individuals put in at all levels have led to this recognition. It is a vote of confidence in us all and I take this opportunity to thank the entire team. As an Accounting Officer, I have provided oversight to the initiatives in this institution including the Presidential Initiative but a bigger team is appreciated for the successful implementation which has helped further boost donor and public confidence in Makerere University,” he asserted.

The Prime Minister challenged the organizers to profile community and social leaders who go unnoticed yet they too make contributions. “Establish a link with the national honours in the Office of the President to ensure that these are also captured. The national honors are not a preserve of politicians,” he emphasized.

Among the other people recognised included Hon. Betty Bigombe, Hon. Justice Benjamin Odoki, Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda, Prof. Badru Kateregga, Prof. Elijah Mushemezi, Dr. Kihumuro Apuuli, and Prof. Lawrence Mukiibi.  The companies recognized included Britania Industries, Roko Construction, Case Medical Centre, Butabika Hospital, Farm Support Ltd and Swift Safari Buses.

Article by Marion Alina, Public Relations Office