Museveni Inaugurates Aga Khan University, Flags Off Construction of Specialized Hospital in Kampala

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today officiated at the inauguration of the Aga Khan University and the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Aga Khan Hospital in Nakawa Division, Kampala.

During the event, President Museveni reassured private and foreign investors of Uganda’s commitment to safeguarding their investments through protective legislation. He emphasized that government is focused on fostering a thriving private sector by creating an enabling business environment.

The President reflected on the historical role of the Ismaili community and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in Uganda’s growth before the expulsion of foreigners in the 1970s, which crippled the economy. He noted that the return of the community under the NRM government significantly contributed to economic revival.

Commending the Aga Khan Development Network, President Museveni applauded the establishment of the university, which is equipped with modern lecture halls, a simulation laboratory, a library, and a multipurpose auditorium to meet current education demands. He explained that the Government of Uganda allocated 60 acres of land in Nakawa to AKDN in a joint partnership to build the specialized teaching hospital and university, aimed at addressing service gaps in healthcare and higher education.

The President further urged investors such as the Aga Khan to report corrupt government officials who attempt to extort money or demand shares in private companies.

In recognition of AKDN’s contribution to Uganda’s socio-economic development, President Museveni conferred the Pearl of Africa Grand Master Award on His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V and the Grand Commander Award on Princess Zahra Aga Khan. He said the honors reflect the Network’s invaluable role in Uganda’s progress.

First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, lauded the Aga Khan’s legacy of development initiatives that have benefited Ugandans over the decades. She described the project as a milestone in the partnership between AKDN and the Government of Uganda, highlighting that while government provided land, the University has offered expertise, investment, and experience to realize the project.

“Our goal as a country has been to expand opportunities, ensure equity, and strengthen higher education as an engine of innovation and development,” she said. “Through partnerships like this, we are building the expertise needed to transform Uganda’s human capital.”

She further noted Uganda’s progress in expanding university education from one public university to ten, alongside 48 private universities. She also highlighted ongoing investments in infrastructure, citing recent refurbishments at Makerere University and the expansion of the National Council for Higher Education offices.

Quoting scripture, the First Lady emphasized the importance of partnerships in nation building, adding that the collaboration with AKDN represents another milestone in promoting quality education and healthcare.

His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V expressed gratitude for the support of the Government of Uganda and commended the architects for designing a university facility that embodies the pursuit of knowledge. He reaffirmed AKDN’s commitment to working closely with public institutions in Uganda to advance development.

Dr. Sulaiman Shahabuddin, President of Aga Khan University, also thanked President Museveni for his consistent support, noting that the institution shares his vision of education as a driver of economic transformation.

The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, members of the diplomatic corps, senior government officials, and other dignitaries.