Brand of Love: Mama Janet Museveni’s legacy of compassion

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OPINION

By Olive Birungi Lumonya

In a world where leadership is often synonymous with power and prestige, one woman has proven that true strength lies in compassion, love, and care.

Mama Janet Museveni, the First Lady of Uganda, has built a brand that resonates with peace, passion, and resilience, touching the lives of thousands of vulnerable children and families.

The story of Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans (UWESO), the organisation Mama Janet founded, is a testament to the power of humble beginnings.

It all started under a tree, with a handful of dedicated ladies meeting to discuss ways to support orphans affected by the ravages of war.

Like Coca-Cola, which began in a small pharmacy in Atlanta, UWESO has grown into a thriving brand, refreshing the lives of those in need.

From those early days, Mama Janet’s unwavering commitment to her mission has been the driving force behind UWESO’s success.

Mama Janet’s personal style reflects her strong brand. Her signature short hair, with a touch of lovely grey, exudes confidence and elegance.

Her choice of clothing is always impeccable, reflecting her ability to stay on trend while maintaining a timeless sense of class. She walks with style, calm and composure, a true embodiment of a strong brand that keeps up with the times.

Her dress code is a masterclass in understated elegance, often opting for traditional African prints with a modern twist.

Just like strong brands, her calm demeanour has a profound effect on those around her, drawing people to her with an almost magnetic force. Her beautiful smile can light up a room, putting even the most sceptical of individuals at ease. Yes, she has built a brand that connects politics and humanity.

Strong brands do not command respect, but respect follows them. When she speaks, her words are laced with authority, confidence and a deep sense of conviction. It is clear that Mama Janet is a true leader, one who has earned the respect and admiration of those around her. As the security situation in Uganda improved, and orphans reduced, many organisations would have scaled back their operations, but not Mama Janet. She saw an opportunity to pivot, to focus on the most vulnerable – the street children of Kampala. Today, UWESO has helped over 10,000 children off the streets, providing them with shelter, education and a chance at a brighter future.

As we celebrate today, there are 309 street children! Like Google, UWESO’s brand is synonymous with innovation, always seeking new ways to make a difference.

Just like strong brands, Mama Janet understands her clients, and she gives them love, says a long-time associate. “She has a way of making everyone feel seen, heard and loved.”

This deep understanding of her clients has been the cornerstone of UWESO’s success, enabling the organisation to build a brand that is both resilient and adaptable.

UWESO’s brand is built on the principles of love, forgiveness and innovation, reflecting Mama Janet’s leadership style. Strong brands have a calming effect that draws you to them, and Mama Janet’s brand is no exception. Her calmness, confidence, and authority are a beacon of hope for those seeking a leader who embodies the values of compassion, empathy and kindness. Recently, Mama Janet was honoured with an international award, a testament to her tireless efforts to make a difference. As we celebrate this recognition, we salute a true champion of the vulnerable, a woman whose brand has become synonymous with hope, love, and compassion.

Mama Janet’s story is a powerful reminder that every brand has a story, and UWESO’s is one of resilience, passion, and dedication.

From humble beginnings to international recognition, UWESO’s brand continues to inspire, reminding us that true power lies not in authority but in service to others.

The writer is the chairperson National Executive Committee of Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans