RUKIGA-The Rukiga District FDC Chairperson and Independent LC5 Chairperson aspirant, Michael Kwarikunda Mbareba, has joined hundreds in mourning the death of Dr. James Musinguzi Garuga, the founder of Kigezi Highland Tea Factories and a celebrated pillar of development in the Kigezi sub-region.
In a heartfelt tribute, Mbareba described the late Garuga as “not your ordinary man, but a giant of truth, a magnet of actual development, a storyteller, a generous soul, an advocate of justice, and a great parent both to those he knew and even strangers.
“Dr. Garuga, who passed away recently, has been remembered as one of the last standing voices of reason in the region.
Mbareba praised his intelligence, humility, and exceptional teamwork, calling him “a man whose legacy will echo through generations.””May God receive you and exalt you for the many good things you did for us while on earth,” he prayed.
Speaking in his native Rukiga language, Mbareba also expressed deep personal loss:”Twaferwa James, nyowe nkomuntu kandi nkabanyaKigezi tweena, Mukama amwakiire kandi amushitamiise aharungi, ahabwebiyatukoreire akihuriire.”(Translation: We have lost James.
As an individual and as the people of Kigezi, may the Lord receive him and reward him richly for all the good he did for us.)Dr. Garuga was renowned for transforming the tea industry in Kigezi, empowering local farmers, and creating job opportunities across the region.
His passing marks the end of an era for many who saw him as a beacon of community transformation and selfless service.
