Luwero Industries boss Lumu Galiwango eulogised, laid to rest

KAMPALA - Senior officers from the defence and engineering fraternity have paid glowing tributes to Luwero Industries Limited (LIL) deputy general manager, Eng. Gerald Lumu Galiwango, who passed away on September 26, 2025.

The industries, which are a subsidiary of the National Enterprise Corporation, the commercial arm of the defence ministry, manufacture and repair armoured vehicles, electronic equipment, ordnance and agricultural equipment.

During a requiem mass at St Jude sub-parish, Abayita Ababiri in Entebbe, National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) managing director Gen. James Mugira remembered the late as a patriot, a freedom fighter, and a man of integrity who gave his life to the service of Uganda.

“Lumu was a true freedom fighter. He played a pivotal role in recruiting youth into the bush war and the National Resistance Army, a sacrifice that helped bring peace to this country,” Mugira said.

He described Lumu as loyal to President Yoweri Museveni and devoted to the liberation cause, later distinguishing himself as a professional of rare integrity in the defence industries. 

“He was a workaholic, a trusted advisor and importantly, not corrupt,” Mugira added.
Lumu, who worked at Luwero Industries in various capacities, including chief engineer, managing director, and finally deputy general manager, was credited with technical brilliance, diligence, and honesty. Mugira promised that one of the company’s structures would be named in his honour.

The late engineer’s children also spoke during the service, describing their father as loving, kind and protective. They said he devoted himself to their education and upbringing, leaving a void that will be hard to fill.

A soldier of steel and service

Luwero Industries general manager Maj. Gen. Sabiiti Muzeyi praised Lumu’s three-decade-long service, calling him “a soldier of steel and service.”

“Comrade Lumu joined Luwero Industries on July 4, 1995, just a year after its commissioning. In defence circles, his name became synonymous with LIL—a testament to the profound mark he left on this institution,” Sabiiti said.

He highlighted Lumu’s academic and professional journey, beginning at St Mary’s College Kisubi (SMACK) before pursuing mechanical engineering at the University of Nairobi.

Lumu later worked in Kenya with Kenya Baati Ltd and other firms, even while quietly supporting Uganda’s liberation efforts.

Sabiiti detailed how Lumu’s engineering expertise became indispensable to Uganda’s defence industry.

He supervised modifications to land, air, and water platforms, from enhancing Mamba vehicles to upgrading artillery munitions, all of which bolstered the UPDF’s operational capacity in counterinsurgency and peacekeeping missions.

“His technical competence and integrity did not go unnoticed. He was entrusted by the President and Commander-in-Chief with high-level assignments, including serving on the Kilembe Mines committee,” Sabiiti noted.

Discipline, mentorship, legacy

Colleagues remembered Lumu as disciplined and accountable. As chairperson of LIL’s disciplinary committee, he was praised for fairness, frankness, and commitment to truth.

“He never left his workplace without notifying leadership—a small gesture, but it spoke volumes about his sense of responsibility,” Maj. Gen. Sabiiti said.

He also mentored scores of young engineers, technicians, and students, many of whom continue to serve at LIL and elsewhere.

“No candle burns out while lighting another candle. Comrade Lumu’s mentorship has multiplied his legacy,” he said.

Lumu’s role in preserving institutional memory during the recent restructuring of LIL was also emphasised. He helped guide policy, modernise structures, and draft the company’s HR Manual, ensuring continuity for the next generation.

During the early partnership between LIL and Kiira Motors Corporation, Lumu provided essential technical support.

One of the first buses produced under this collaboration transported LIL staff to yesterday’s service—a gesture Sabiiti described as “a fitting symbol of his impact.”
In recognition of his service, Luwero Industries announced that its newly constructed staff mess will be named in his honour.

“Comrade Lumu has fought a good fight. He has completed his mission. His tools are down, but his legacy will continue to build this nation. Whoever works for the common good outlives himself,” Maj. Gen. Sabiiti concluded.

Galiwango was laid to rest on September 30, 2025, in Kasama, Mpigi district.