Akena referred to historical statements by President Museveni acknowledging the destruction of food supplies and the destitution of about 2.7 million people during that period. He argued that the loss of cattle deprived communities of daily nutrition, household income, school fees, draft power, and soil fertility, leaving effects that continue to be felt today.
Kampala’s waste management system has come under increasing strain in recent years, including during Uganda’s first National Cleaning Day, when the volume of collected waste overwhelmed collection teams and temporarily clogged the Buyala disposal facility.
"He was a freedom fighter, a patriot and a peacemaker. When we engaged, he understood that Uganda needed unity rather than endless conflict," Museveni said.
Amuriat said citizens from across civil society, academia, and political groups presented a united front before Parliament’s joint committees, with the majority rejecting the bill.
Museveni compared the proposed exemption to existing tax relief for police and army personnel, stressing that scientists deserve similar recognition for their role in national development.