features 11 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Three Generations, One Era: A Ugandan Family's Story Under Museveni's Rule
A poignant look at Roseline, her son, and her mother, all born during President Museveni's tenure, highlighting their struggles and aspirations amidst the nation's ongoing political landscape. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/meet-the-family-of-three-generations-born-under-museveni-govt-5455326
In Uganda, over three decades of President Yoweri Museveni’s leadership have shaped the lives of many, including a family whose three generations have all come of age under his presidency. Roseline, a cleaner in her mid-20s, recently found herself bewildered by a public holiday, revealing a generational gap in historical awareness.
This generational disconnect extends to their personal lives as well. Roseline, her four-year-old son, and her mother, who is approaching 40, were all born when Museveni was already in power. This shared timeline underscores a significant period of Ugandan history witnessed by multiple generations.
Roseline’s personal journey reflects the challenges faced by many young Ugandans. Born in Kabarole District, her education was cut short due to her family’s financial struggles. Despite scoring well in her O-Levels, her mother’s illness and lack of funds prevented her from pursuing further studies or retrieving her results.
Moving to Kampala for work, Roseline faced job instability, particularly with the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. A single mother raising a young son and supporting her ailing mother, she grapples with the high cost of living, including school fees and rent.
“I pay school fees, pay rent, take care of myself and my mother, who is nearly 40 years old and sickly,” Roseline shared, expressing her desire to return to school but facing financial barriers.
Roseline’s plea to the government is for more affordable education, even in government institutions. The Ministry of Education and Sports, through its spokesperson Dr. Dennis Mugimba, has responded positively, highlighting plans to implement completely free Universal Primary Education and seeking Cabinet direction on providing free schooling.
The family’s hopes are now pinned on Roseline’s son, wishing he will be the first in their lineage to surpass high school education, alongside the matriarch’s recovery and ability to afford necessary medical treatment.
This story is based on reporting from the Daily Monitor.