Iganga: Hundreds gathered in somber unity to celebrate the life and legacy of Mary Owori, mother of UPDF officer Col. Rogers Gabriel Owori, at her burial in Namasoga village, Iwawu Bulamagi Sub-County, Iganga District, on Saturday, October 26, 2024.
In a poignant address, General Edward Katumba Wamala, the Minister of Works and Transport, urged Ugandans to cherish their parents, especially their mothers, whose sacrifices, he said, are the bedrock of Uganda’s future.
Owori, who passed away at 88 after a courageous battle with throat cancer, was remembered as a matriarch devoted to nurturing her children and instilling values that would echo through generations.
“A mother’s love is a lifetime blessing,” General Katumba said, noting, “We must honor them while we can, caring for them as they cared for us.”
He praised the late Owori for her guidance in raising strong children, especially Col. Owori, who serves the nation alongside him.
With a message to all Ugandans, General Katumba called on the community to embrace government programs designed to uplift families, build resilience, and ensure a prosperous future.
“Development begins at home and in our communities,” he shared, emphasizing that collective effort and unity are needed to advance the nation.
Col. Gabriel Owori, representing the family, expressed gratitude for the life his mother led and her unwavering faith, which sustained their family.
“She was a gift, and we thank God for her 88 years with us,” he said.
His words painted a picture of a dedicated mother who worked tirelessly to shape her children’s lives.
The solemn gathering included prominent figures such as Iganga MPs Hon. Kawuma Saudi Alibawo (Iganga District Woman MP) and Hon. Milton Muwuma of Kigulu South, who took the opportunity to encourage the community to unite in support of their leaders and work towards common goals.
“Only through collaboration can we truly develop our communities,” MP Alibawo said, calling on residents to build a future worthy of the legacy left by individuals like Mary Owori.
Adding his voice to the tributes, Maj. Gen. George Igumba, Commander of the Senior Staff and Command College in Jinja, urged parents to follow Owori’s example by preparing their children for life’s responsibilities.
“Her children carry her values, a true testament to the power of a parent’s influence,” Major Igumba noted.
The funeral was marked by the presence of high-ranking UPDF officers, including Brigadier Omola, Haji Walubi Abubakar, Ministry of Works staff, and Owekitiibwa Wakalali Matia, who joined the family and community in honoring the life of a woman who had left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
