James Garuga Musinguzi, a founding member and key financier of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), has passed away. He was widely respected both in Uganda’s political and business circles, and played a pivotal role in acquiring the party’s national headquarters in Najjanankumbi.
Garuga, who hailed from Kanungu District, was a prominent figure in southwestern Uganda, where he remained deeply rooted throughout his life. He built a formidable business empire with interests in agriculture, real estate, and transport, and was celebrated for his entrepreneurial spirit and leadership.
Beyond business, Garuga was equally known for his commitment to community development. He championed numerous philanthropic projects in education, health, and economic empowerment across his home region, impacting thousands of lives.
“His passing is a huge loss—not just to the FDC party, but to the nation,” one party official said. “He believed in building institutions, in empowering people, and he invested his own resources to make it happen.”
News of his death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the country, with political leaders, business associates, and community members remembering him as a visionary, generous mentor, and patriot.
Garuga’s contributions to Uganda’s democracy and private sector growth will be remembered as part of his enduring legacy.