Kazoora son laid to rest, Museveni lauds family on liberation struggle

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President Yoweri Museveni has commended the family of late freedom fighter John Kazoora for their contribution towards the liberation of Uganda.

The Kazoora family is known for its heroic stand against Idi Amin’s dictatorship, which ravaged Uganda between 1971 and 1979.

“Our fighting groups relied on the support of educated and patriotic Ugandans, like Kazoora, to build enough capacity to dislodge Amin from power,” Museveni said.

He made the remarks in a speech delivered on his behalf by Vice-President Jessica Alupo during the final send-off of Kazoora's son, Mathew Richard Rubahama Kazzora, in Mbarara district on October 12, 2025.

Vice-President Jessica Alupo received by the clergy during the final send-off of Kazoora's son, Mathew Richard Rubahama Kazzora. (Courtesy)

Vice-President Jessica Alupo greeting mourners during the final send-off of Kazoora's son, Mathew Richard Rubahama Kazzora. (Courtesy)

Vice-President Jessica Alupo interacting with the mourners during the final send-off of Kazoora's son, Mathew Richard Rubahama Kazzora. (Courtesy)

Vice-President Jessica Alupo greeted by one of the mourners during the final send-off of Kazoora's son, Mathew Richard Rubahama Kazzora. (Courtesy)

Museveni told mourners that as they send off Kazoora's son, it is important to point out the historical contribution of Kazoora's family to the liberation of Uganda.

On behalf of the Government and the National Resistance Movement party, the President conveyed heartfelt sympathies to Kazoora's family, relatives and friends during the sad moment.

"I want you to know that our hearts and prayers are with you. We pray that God grants you the solace and courage to endure this loss," he said.

He emphasised that the country is not only mourning the son's demise, but also celebrating his life and contribution to his family and country.

The late Mathew, 63, died on September 1, 2025, in London. He was born to the late John Kazzora and Gwendine and was the second born of five children: Max, Vanessa, Suzanne and Mark.

Suzanne Kazzora said Matthew's life was marked by sacrifice and devotion to those he loved.

"When our father fell sick in 1998, Mathew put his personal aspirations on hold to care for him alongside our mother. After our father passed away in 1999, Mathew returned to Uganda to care for our mother, supported the family and oversaw our father's Estate with me," she eulogised.

Above all else, Suzanne said Mathew will be remembered for his love of family. "He was a devoted son and a protective brother, who always put the needs of others before his own. He lived with quiet strength and unshakable generosity. Though he has left us too soon, Mathew's memory will live on," Suzanne eulogised.

Several dignitaries, including Minister Bright Rwamirama, MPs and religious leaders led by Ankole Diocese bishop Sheldon Mwesigwa and South Ankole bishop Nathan Ahimbisibwe, attended the final send-off.