Veteran politician and long-serving Finance Minister Matia Kasaija has officially handed over the stewardship of Uganda’s most powerful economic ministry, bringing to an end a remarkable 15-year tenure that saw him become one of the country’s most recognizable faces in government.
Kasaija, who served as Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development since 2011, passed the baton to his successor, Henry Musasizi, during a handover ceremony attended by senior ministry officials led by Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury Ramathan Ggoobi and Under Secretary Edward Sengozi.
The outgoing minister said he was leaving office a happy and fulfilled man, proud of the role he had played in steering Uganda’s economy through both prosperous and challenging times.”I leave this office a happy man,” Kasaija told officials and staff. “I have had the privilege of serving my country in this ministry for many years and I am grateful to all the technical staff and leaders who have worked with me.”
Kasaija urged the new minister to maintain the economic policies and reforms that have been implemented over the years, noting that continuity was essential for Uganda’s development journey.”The foundation has been laid. I urge you to continue with the policies and programmes that have helped transform our economy,” he said.
The handover marked the beginning of a new chapter for Henry Musasizi, who previously served as Minister of State for General Duties in the same ministry and is considered one of the most knowledgeable government officials on public finance matters.
MUSASIZI SHINES ON DAY ONE
Musasizi’s first assignment as substantive Finance Minister could hardly have been bigger.Only hours after assuming office, he stepped onto the national stage to present the 2026/27 national budget before Parliament, a task that tested both his preparedness and confidence.Observers noted that Musasizi delivered the budget speech with composure, command of figures and a clear understanding of government priorities, earning praise from legislators and technocrats alike.
His smooth performance was seen as a strong indication that the transition at the ministry would be seamless. “It is an honour to assume this office,” Musasizi said during the handover ceremony.
He paid tribute to his predecessor for the guidance and mentorship he had received over the years.”I thank Hon. Matia Kasaija for his leadership and dedication to this ministry. We shall continue working to ensure economic growth, job creation and prosperity for all Ugandans.”
Many ministry officials believe Musasizi’s long experience in the finance docket makes him well suited for the job. Before becoming minister, he spent years handling budget-related responsibilities and was deeply involved in government planning and expenditure oversight.His impressive debut during the budget presentation reassured many that Uganda’s economic management remains in experienced hands.
GGOOBI PRAISES KASAIJA’S SERVICE
Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury Ramathan Ggoobi paid glowing tribute to Kasaija, describing him as a statesman whose leadership helped shape modern Uganda’s economic direction.Ggoobi thanked the outgoing minister for his years of service and wished him success in the next chapter of his life.
“On behalf of the staff and management of the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, we thank Hon. Matia Kasaija for his dedicated service to this country,” Ggoobi said.
“You have provided leadership during critical moments in Uganda’s economic journey. We wish you good health, happiness and success as you move on from this office.” Ggoobi also pledged the full support of the ministry’s technical team to the new minister.
“We shall continue to work closely with Hon. Henry Musasizi to ensure that government programmes are implemented effectively and that Uganda’s economy continues to grow.”
A MINISTER KNOWN FOR HIS HUMOUR
Throughout his long tenure, Kasaija became famous not only for presenting budgets and discussing economic policy but also for his unique sense of humour.One of the most memorable moments came when he jokingly remarked that Uganda’s economy was growing so fast that even those who could not immediately see the progress would eventually feel it.
His humorous comments often generated laughter in Parliament and dominated headlines, helping make economic discussions more accessible to ordinary Ugandans.Kasaija frequently used simple language and colourful examples to explain complex economic issues, a style that endeared him to many people.
At various budget events, he would crack jokes about government spending, taxation and economic growth, often leaving audiences in stitches before returning to serious policy discussions.His relaxed and approachable personality contrasted with the often-technical nature of finance ministry work.
Despite criticism from some quarters over economic hardships and rising public debt during certain periods, Kasaija remained steadfast in defending government policies and consistently argued that Uganda’s economy was on the right path.
FIFTEEN YEARS OF ECONOMIC STEWARDSHIP
During Kasaija’s tenure, Uganda experienced significant economic milestones, including major infrastructure investments in roads, energy generation, industrial parks and oil development projects.He also oversaw economic recovery efforts following the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the most difficult periods in recent history.
His ministry played a central role in mobilizing resources for critical government programmes and negotiating financial support from development partners.
For many Ugandans, Kasaija became synonymous with budget day, an annual event where he would outline government priorities and spending plans for the coming financial year.His departure therefore marks the end of an era in Uganda’s public finance management.
As ministry staff bid farewell to the veteran politician, there was a sense of appreciation for a man who dedicated a significant portion of his public life to managing the country’s finances.At the same time, attention has now shifted to Musasizi, who faces the challenge of sustaining economic growth, creating jobs and ensuring fiscal discipline amid growing demands on government resources.
With a successful budget presentation already under his belt on his very first day as Finance Minister, many believe Musasizi has made a promising start. For Kasaija, however, the moment was one of reflection and gratitude.After 15 years at the helm of the Finance Ministry, the veteran politician walked away satisfied that he had played his part, leaving the country’s economic steering wheel in the hands of a trusted successor ready for the road ahead.
Author Profile
- Mr. Stephen Kasozi Muwambi is a seasoned crime investigative writer, majoring in judicial-based stories. His two decades’ experience as a senior investigative journalist has made him one of the best to reckon on in Uganda. He can also be reached via [email protected]
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