It was announced last week that UBC, Uganda’s national broadcaster’s most senior workers Ismael Kigozi, Kazinda Esther, Dick Mulima, Iga Bukenya Joseph, Omoding Herbert and Mukalazi Kyobe started life in retirement after clocking the age of 60.
Kigozi has been Uganda’s best Swahili anchor while Kazinda became popular for her s kids programme Esseza Omutto. The couple are widely regarded as two of the main architects of the radio service.
They have not only been the ubiquitous names and faces on television over the past 20, 30 years they have also influenced, mentored and enabled the flourishing of what we call the broadcasting sphere in Uganda today.
Last week, UBC retired 22 outstanding and legendary TV and radio presenters, sound engineers and station administrators who clocked retirement age.
UBC boss Winston Agaba paid tribute to retirees’ long and distinguished service in the establishment and development of the national broadcaster.
“Their long and distinguished careers re inextricably linked to the birth and development of modern media in this country,” Mr. Agaba said at a lavish send off at the Mackinnon Suites in Nakasero, Kampala.
“It gives me great pride to look across the room and see faces of people that are synonymous with discipline, mastery of poise, dedicating and above all, willingness to improve not only their individual footprint in Broadcasting but also usher in a new era of reporters, presenters and administrators. I am equally pleased to announce that every retiree tonight already has their bank account credited with their gratuity,” Mr. Agaba remarked.
Also present at the event were board members Dr. Muhammed Kabba, Mariam Menya, Dr. Kaggwa from the revamp committee of Ministry of ICT and numerous employees past and present.
The retirees came with spouses and children to the inaugural retiree event that UBC has ever held.
Eng Ian Kyeyune(RDC Wakiso district) representing the board chairman congratulated the retirees for being the beacons of exemplification and discipline to the younger ones and requested that the latter emulate their standard.
“These are no doubt the gallant men and women that have made our country what it is today. They have continuously informed, educated and entertained us over the years across politics, music, health and agriculture news and shows. I am particularly delighted and honored to call them my teachers and uncles/aunties,” Kyeyune said.
