Thousands of mourners gathered in Oketobilo Village, Aber Sub-county in Oyam District to celebrate the life of Sam Bua Anyuru, whose passing has reignited memories of a family that played a significant role in Uganda’s history. The 65-year-old, who spent many years abroad after leaving Uganda, was finally laid to rest at his ancestral home following his death in France on June 7.
Leading the funeral service, Archdeacon Alfred Okello Arum praised the late Sam Bua Anyuru as a man whose character reflected the strong values instilled in him by his parents. He said the deceased’s life was evidence of how discipline, integrity, and proper upbringing can shape individuals into respected members of society.
The church leader used the occasion to challenge parents to take greater responsibility for raising children with strong moral foundations. He expressed concern over increasing cases of indiscipline among young people, noting that respect for elders and community values is steadily declining in many areas.
Okello Arum also voiced frustration over the low number of local students attending Abdalla Anyuru Memorial College despite the institution being located within the community. According to him, many families overlook the school while pursuing expensive alternatives that often become unsustainable, leaving some children to abandon their studies altogether.
As tributes continued, Arakocola Yamyam clan leader Joseph Olet Magezi, commonly known as “Mr Build,” commended those who worked tirelessly to ensure the late Sam Bua Anyuru’s remains were returned home from Europe. He singled out veteran politician Beatrice Lagada and community mobiliser David Egwel for their dedication throughout the lengthy repatriation process.
Magezi revealed that he received constant updates from the time the body arrived at Entebbe International Airport until it reached Oyam for burial. He further applauded Egwel for his continued efforts in bringing together members of the Arakocola Yamyam clan living both in Uganda and abroad whenever the community faces important challenges.
A message from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, delivered by Senior Presidential Advisor and NRM Vice Chairperson for Northern Uganda Denis Hamson Obua, highlighted the deep connection between the President and the Anyuru family. Museveni described the family as one whose contribution to national development and public service remains unforgettable.
The President recalled that the late Mzee Abdalla Anyuru was instrumental in his early career, having recruited him into government service after university. He also reflected on the dark period when the respected public servant was killed during Idi Amin’s regime, noting that the loss of leaders like Anyuru weakened national institutions. To honour the family and support the funeral arrangements, Museveni contributed Shs10 million, which was delivered by Obua during the burial ceremony.
