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The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba responded sharply to comments made by Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Duties, Odrek Rwabwogo, regarding African ancestry.
Rwabwogo was quoted by UBC TV saying: "If salvation is your heritage, don’t introduce the Bachwezi, don’t introduce witchcraft. Remember where you’ve come from. Your children must be the first to carry salvation forward."
He made the remarks during Light Up Uganda, a prayer event led by his wife, Pastor Patience Rwabwogo. Patience is Gen Kainerugaba’s sister and also serves as head pastor of Covenant of Nations Church.
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Gen Kainerugaba, who openly admires the Bachwezi and often identifies with them, was clearly unsettled by Rwabogo’s words.
The CDF, who is also the Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, said: "Telling us our ancestors are equivalent to the devil is the same type of colonial rubbish that the Europeans propagated."
Light Up Uganda is currently taking place at Kololo Independence Grounds from May 19 to 24, 2025. This week-long event aims to spread spiritual teachings and promote unity across the country.
The gathering continues the “Light Up Uganda” crusades held over the past two years in different regions, starting in 2022 with Luwero, then Masindi, Gulu, Mbarara, and Tororo.
The event is non-denominational and welcomes Christians from Anglican, Catholic, Orthodox, and Pentecostal backgrounds. It features teachings, prayers, and intercessions designed to encourage spiritual growth.
A key part of the event is the Men’s Conference, which will address challenges commonly faced by men, including work, leadership, and personal relationships.