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OPINION
Recently, I had the privilege of witnessing Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu (PEK) receive Poland’s prestigious Gold Cross of Merit at Fairway Hotel in Kampala, in recognition of his contribution to international cooperation and Uganda-Poland relations.
The occasion reminded me of a man I have admired and interacted with for decades.
Growing up in Greater Bushenyi, professors were rare. Three names inspired us: Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu, Prof. Tarsis Kabwegyere and Prof. Musa Mushanga. Their eloquence, intellectual depth and wisdom inspired many of us to aspire to become like them.
PEK’s career spans academia, banking, economic management, Parliament and diplomacy. He worked closely with President Milton Obote during the 1980s, served in several Cabinet portfolios under President Yoweri Museveni, including as Minister of Water and Environment from 2012 to 2016, and currently serves as Minister of Internal Affairs.
But what has impressed me most is not his impressive CV. It is his humility and accessibility.
During my student days at Makerere University, we invited him to student functions. He accepted the invitations, attended the events and inspired us. Whenever I visited his office, he received me warmly. These experiences challenged our perception that prominent people were inaccessible or too important to listen to ordinary students.
Those experiences partly shaped how I relate to students and young people in my own professional life.
When I established Rwebiita Preparatory School, he honoured my invitation and inspired our children.
Around 2015, during his tenure as Minister of Water and Environment, I publicly requested his support in extending safe water services from Itendero to Rwebiita and neighbouring villages, approximately seven kilometres away. He guided us through the process, and the connection was subsequently expedited.
Prof. Katusiimeh with Proffesor Kamuntu
One incident remains unforgettable.
I once visited him at his home in Rweigaga as he was preparing to travel to Kampala. Rather than postpone our discussion, he left his ministerial vehicle and joined me in my rather old car! We talked as we drove towards Itendero. When we reached my turning point, he returned to his official vehicle and continued his journey.
That simple gesture taught me more about humility than many leadership lectures.
Even today, he remains approachable, answers telephone calls and often returns missed calls.
His long career raises an important question: What enables some individuals to remain relevant across generations and changing political administrations?
Professional competence, experience, networks, adaptability and political loyalty may all contribute. But my interactions with PEK suggest that humility, accessibility, respect for others and the ability to nurture relationships also matter.
Of course, longevity in office does not automatically translate into effectiveness, and no public servant is beyond criticism. Accountability and contribution to the public good remain essential.
Nevertheless, we should acknowledge the positive lessons we learn from people while they are still with us.
PEK has influenced how I approach leadership and public service, particularly my commitment to remaining accessible to young people.
Sometimes, the greatest legacy of a leader is not the office they occupied, but the people they inspired and the lives they quietly touched.
Congratulations, Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu, on this international recognition!
The writer, Assoc. Prof. Mesharch Katusiimeh, is an Associate Professor of Governance and Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at Kabale University.
