Klaus Holderbaum, who passed away at Mulago National Referral Hospital on 16 May 2023, was the Senior Presidential Advisor on tourism and investment in the Office of the President and the former German Ambassador to Uganda.

Holderbaum was a German diplomat for 33 years and had 22 years of experience in sub-Saharan Africa; his final posting was Uganda, where he served from 1999 to 2003 before retiring.

His affection for Uganda, the pearl of Africa, led to his appointment as adviser to the ministry of tourism, trade, and industry and, later, as senior presidential advisor on tourism and investment until his passing.

Why Klaus chose to stay in Uganda.

When Klaus first arrived in Uganda, he was awestruck by the country’s grandeur and wondered if all Ugandans knew they were living in a paradise. He never wanted to use the phrase “nature’s gift” to describe it, as many countries are.

“Uganda is endowed with beauty, not only in its natural setting but also in its people,” Holderbaum had stated.

Holderbaum stated that he had never encountered difficulties in other countries where he had served, but he found Uganda to be very distinct from the others.

“I need not import German lager. There are always fresh fruits available, and they are all natural. I lack superlatives to describe their friendliness and hospitality,” said Holderbaum.

Having made Uganda his home nearly two years prior to his retirement, he knew that the country would be the location for him to settle after retirement, as he had planned to remain in Africa.

He believed that, after many years away from Germany, no one would recognize Holderbaum.

Despite the fact that his wife and children remained in Germany, he chose to stay in Uganda because he was well-connected in the fields of politics, business, cultural institutions, and the media. He had previously indicated that finding employment in Germany would have been difficult for him.

His passing signifies the conclusion of his illustrious career, and his contributions to Germany-Uganda relations and devotion to Uganda will be remembered.