KAMPALA — President Yoweri Museveni has unveiled a new lineup of Cabinet ministers and senior government officials, retaining several experienced figures while introducing changes aimed at strengthening service delivery and regional representation.
At the helm of government business, Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Rose Epel Alupo retains her position, alongside Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, who continues as Leader of Government Business in Parliament. The Cabinet structure also maintains three deputy prime ministers, with Rebecca Kadaga serving as First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Dr. Crispus Walter Kiyonga as Second Deputy Prime Minister, and Lukia Nakadama as Third Deputy Prime Minister.
In key ministries, familiar faces dominate. Janet Kataaha Museveni remains Minister of Education and Sports, while Frank Tumwebaze continues to oversee Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries. The finance docket is entrusted to Henry Musasizi, and foreign affairs to Ambassador Adonia Ayebare. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi has been named Minister of Health, while Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero takes charge of Information, Communications Technology and National Guidance.
The President also made notable appointments within the Office of the President, including Milly Babalanda (Presidency), Jim Muhwezi (Security), and Eng. Asiimwe Jonard (Science, Technology and Innovation). Hillary Onek retains responsibilities in the Office of the Prime Minister, alongside Sam Engola, who will handle disaster preparedness and refugees.
In the security and legal sectors, Kiryowa Kiwanuka has been appointed Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, while Norbert Mao continues as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. Ephraim Kamuntu takes over Internal Affairs, and Sam Mayanja remains Attorney General.
The Cabinet further reflects attention to regional and sectoral interests. John Baptist Lokii has been named Minister for Karamoja Affairs, while Balaam Barugahara assumes the Local Government portfolio. Other key appointments include Judith Nabakooba (Lands), Katumba Wamala (Public Service), Tom Butime (Tourism), Sanjay Tanna (Trade), Kahinda Otafiire (Water and Environment), and Fred Byamukama (Works and Transport).
A wide range of Ministers of State were also appointed across ministries, reinforcing operational capacity. Notable among them are Phiona Nyamutoro (Energy and Minerals), Joyce Ssebugwawo (ICT), Beatrice Anywar (Environment), and David Bahati (Industry).
Additionally, several senior political figures have been designated as Senior Presidential Advisors, including Hamson Obua, Ruth Nankabirwa, Francis Mwebesa, and Evelyn Anite. Dr. Kenneth Omona has been reassigned to the diplomatic service as an ambassador, with his posting yet to be announced.
The appointments signal continuity in key sectors alongside strategic reshuffles, as the government seeks to advance its development agenda. Analysts say the blend of experienced leaders and new entrants could help maintain stability while addressing emerging national priorities. The new Cabinet is expected to be sworn in soon, after which ministers will formally assume their responsibilities.