President Yoweri Museveni has addressed growing public concern over the prolonged absence of First Lady Janet Museveni, confirming that she recently suffered a serious health scare but is now recovering.
In a message issued on Wednesday to mark Janet Museveni’s 79th birthday, the Ugandan leader disclosed that the incident occurred on March 21, 2026, describing it as a critical moment that required urgent medical intervention.
His remarks come after months of speculation about the First Lady’s whereabouts, as she had not appeared in public engagements.
Museveni attributed the incident to a “spiritual attack,” stating that what he described as an attempt on her life was ultimately unsuccessful.
He noted that the date of the incident holds historical significance, referencing a 1979 battle in which his forces defeated troops loyal to former president Idi Amin in Rugaando, near Mbarara.
According to the president, timely medical attention played a crucial role in stabilizing her condition.
He credited a team of doctors for saving her life and confirmed that she is currently on a recovery path. However, he did not provide specific details about the nature of the illness or the treatment she received.
"Satan, 3 months ago, on the 21st of March, 2026, launched an attack on the life of Maama. However, sitaane miscalculated. The 21st of March is a good day for the Resistance. That is when we defeated the counter-attack of Idi Amin at Rugaando (12 miles from Mbarara) in 1979. God, using good doctors, saved Maama’s life and she is now recovering well," the president said.
The update offers the first official explanation for Janet Museveni’s absence from public life, which had raised questions among observers, particularly given her dual role as First Lady and Uganda’s Minister of Education and Sports.
Her absence had been notable during key national events and official functions in recent months.
In his statement, Museveni also reflected on his wife’s contributions over the years, both within the family and in national service.
He highlighted her role during the early years of the National Resistance Movement struggle between 1981 and 1986, when she reportedly managed family responsibilities while he was engaged in guerrilla warfare.
He further praised her involvement in philanthropic work, particularly through the Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans (UWESO), an organization she founded to support vulnerable children.
The president also noted her political engagement in Ntungamo District and her longstanding commitment to religious activities.
Beyond the immediate health update, Museveni used the occasion to express personal aspirations for longevity, stating that he hopes both he and his wife can live to 100 years.
He linked this aspiration to broader political goals, including witnessing the realization of the East African Federation, which he described as a strategic safeguard against future marginalization of African states.
The statement is likely to calm speculation surrounding the First Lady’s health, although the lack of detailed medical information may continue to prompt public interest.
It also underscores the personal dimension of Uganda’s long-serving president, who has occasionally shared private reflections alongside political messaging