Makerere University pays tribute to Dr Rwendeire 

Former National Planning Authority chairman, Dr Abel Rwendeire.  Photo/File

Tributes have continued to pour in since the passing of National Planning Authority chairman Dr Abel Rwendeire.  

Rwendeire, a former minister and Member of Parliament, died at Nakasero Hospital on Thursday aged 66.

Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, the Makerere University vice chancellor, said: "Throughout his distinguished career, Hon. Dr. Rwendeire has given his best to Makerere University, Uganda and the world at large."

"At Makerere University, we will always remember Rwendeire as a brilliant, professional, friendly, humble and respectful gentleman."

Nawangwe said despite many better opportunities Rwendeire had, most of which were at universities abroad, he always looked at Makerere University as home and made several sacrifices for the institution.

In June 1986, Rwendeire was appointed Lecturer in the Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science until September 1, 1989, when he was promoted to the rank of Senior Lecturer.

He was also a Member of the Makerere University Senate and represented Senate on Makerere University Council (April 1990-April 1993). He also served as the General Secretary of the Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA) and passionately advocated for a befitting living wage and better staff welfare.

"Even when he left University service in 1992; Rwendeire continued to nurture upcoming scholars and researchers at this great institution serving as an External Examiner for graduate training and research," Nawangwe said.

By the time of his death Rwendeire was chairperson Makerere University Visitation Committee, set up to earth the problems that were affecting the university and were responsible for persistent staff and student strikes.

"In line with 2Timothy 4:78, we are convinced that Dr. Abel John Julian Rwendeire has fought the good fight, finished the race and kept the faith. Now there is in store for him the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to him and all who have longed for His appearing on that day," Nawangwe said.

Born in Bushuura village in Kabale district in 1951, Rwendeire was Member of Parliament for Rubanda County East constituency in Kabale District from 1996 to 2003. He also served as a minister of state (1996-1998 and 2000-2001) for tourism, trade and industry and later as minister of state for higher education in the ministry of education and sports from 1998 to 2000.

 He will be laid to rest on Sunday.