There are lives that pass quietly, leaving only a whisper behind. And then there are lives like that of Edward Gumizamu Tumusiime, fondly known as Nsheega, which blaze so brightly that even years later, they continue to warm the hearts of all who remember them.
Born on 23rd November 1950 to Eriya and Terra Gumizamu, Edward grew up in the rolling hills of Kashambya, Gomba, in a modest pastoral home. Those who knew him in childhood speak of a boy full of discipline and determination, traits that would shape the man he became. Under the care of the late Violete Kishemera (Mikyala), Edward began his education at Kinuuka Primary School, where he made history by earning a first grade — a feat that filled his community with pride. From there, his journey took him to Kabalega Secondary School in Masindi and later to Nairobi Ponic College, each step broadening his horizons.
In January 1984, amid Uganda’s turbulent political times, Edward began another defining chapter: his marriage to Hon Rosary Bikaako Tumusiime, former MP Entebbe Municipality. It was a union grounded in faith, strength, and service, one that blossomed into a family whose roots continue to run deep.
In his professional life, Edward, a true servant of the people, devoted himself to serving his country. From the Ministry of Health to the Ministry of Public Service, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and UNEPI, he carried himself with diligence, integrity, and an unwavering love for Uganda. His career as an accountant was not just about numbers, but about accountability, service, and the greater good.
But Edward was more than a civil servant — a freedom fighter with courage unmatched, he was a patriot. When the Luwero Triangle bush war began, he joined at its inception, risking everything for the dream of a free Uganda. Alongside fellow patriots such as Hon. Aston Kajara, the late Bob Kagoro, Fred Byarugaba, and many others, he co-founded a clandestine cell in Kampala and Entebbe, a lifeline for the liberation struggle.
He moved recruits through dangerous roadblocks, coordinated defecting soldiers, and ensured the flow of vital supplies — from medical drugs to firearms — into the bush. Those missions were perilous, but Edward’s courage never faltered. He personally oversaw the safe passage of men and women who would later become pillars of Uganda’s leadership, including Gen. Kale Kayihura and Maj. Rubaramira Ruranga.
Among Edward’s many acts of courage during the liberation struggle, one mission stands out as the most daring of them all. In the mid-1980s, Edward and his colleagues undertook the clandestine movement of William Pike, a foreign journalist who had come to Uganda determined to tell the world about the NRA struggle. Pike’s voice would later prove crucial in shaping international awareness and sympathy for the cause.
Edward hosted him at his own home in Entebbe, a bold and risky act in itself, before embarking on the dangerous task of sneaking him through Kampala’s heavily guarded roadblocks. With nerves of steel and unshakable courage, Edward managed to move Pike, along with all his equipment, into the NRA base areas in the Luwero Triangle.
The mission was a success — a testament to Edward’s fearlessness and resourcefulness. Pike would later become the CEO of the New Vision newspaper, but his earliest and most important contribution was amplifying Uganda’s liberation story to the international community — a feat made possible by Edward’s selfless bravery. For this bravery and selflessness, Uganda honored him with the Nalubale Heroes Medal on 9th October 2011.
After the liberation victory in 1986, Edward stepped into politics with the same spirit of service. He was elected District Councilor for Mpigi District, representing Entebbe Municipality, later serving as Vice Chairman LC V for Wakiso District, and eventually as Chairman of the Finance and Planning Committee, Wakiso District.
Beyond politics, he poured his energy into education and community development, sitting on boards of schools such as Merryland High School and Nkumba Primary School, as well as the National Strategic Institutes Governing Council. He believed that true leadership meant leaving behind a stronger, better community.
In every role, Edward was a man of the people who remained close to the people. He championed projects in health, education, infrastructure, youth empowerment, and the church. He was a lifelong member of the Uganda Red Cross Society, always ready to lend a hand where it was most needed.
Family, too, was central to his life. As the firstborn of seven children, he was a natural pillar of strength and guidance. By the time of his passing, Edward was a proud father of 18 children, seven biological, including his last born, Tashobya, who carried forward his dream by studying at Makerere University Business School.
On 23rd March 2012, Edward sealed his journey of service by giving his life to Christ. It was a fitting close to a life lived with courage, generosity, and deep faith.
Today, Edward is remembered not just as a freedom fighter, leader, and community servant, but as a true senior citizen of Entebbe — a man whose story is inseparable from the heartbeat of the town he loved.
As Pride of Entebbe on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), TikTok, WhatsApp, together with My Entebbe and Travel Entebbe, we celebrate him as a timeless icon, a man whose legacy continues to inspire pride, resilience, and unity across generations.
This 23rd December 2025 marks 12 years since Edward Gumizamu Tumusiime joined his ancestors. His spirit remains alive in the history of Uganda, in the memories of his family, and in the hearts of the people of Entebbe who still speak of him with love, gratitude, and nostalgia.
May his great and warm soul continue to rest in eternal peace.
Nyakaana Charles
Artistic Writer Pride Of Entebbe
