First Lady Janet Museveni Recounts 'Jaws of Death' Ordeal as Daughter Ordained Bishop

First Lady Janet Museveni has spoken publicly for the first time in over five months, revealing she recently survived a severe illness that she termed “the jaws of death.” Her return to public life occurred on Sunday at the consecration ceremony for her daughter, Patience Kokundeka Museveni Rwabwogo, as a bishop at Covenant Nations Church in Kampala.

During a lengthy prayer, a visibly frail Mrs. Museveni reflected on her health battle, thanking Ugandans and fellow Christians for their prayers. She attributed her recovery to her Christian faith and hailed Jesus as the “great physician.” Her address also touched upon Uganda’s historical challenges, including civil wars and insurgencies, crediting God for the nation’s rebuilding efforts over the past four decades under President Yoweri Museveni’s leadership.

The ceremony marked a moment of immense pride for the Museveni family as Patience was elevated to the episcopacy. Mrs. Museveni expressed profound joy and honor, noting that her daughter had answered the call to ministry 20 years prior. She prayed for a “fresh anointing” for Patience and her husband, Odrek Rwabwogo, and wished for the Covenant Nations Church to expand its reach while staying true to its core tenets.

President Museveni also addressed the gathering, expressing gratitude for his wife’s recovery and congratulating his daughter on her significant milestone. He shared insights into his family’s Christian roots, noting their conversion in 1947 and commending Patience’s deep understanding of scripture, which he admitted surpassed his own after years of study. The President concluded by announcing a gift of 50 cows to his daughter as a gesture of support.

The consecration ceremony was attended by a diverse group of dignitaries, including the Vice President, government ministers, religious leaders from various faiths, and cultural representatives, underscoring the event’s importance.

Source: The Observer (Uganda)