James Garuga Musinguzi, a celebrated Ugandan businessman, philanthropist, and one of the founding members of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), has died. He passed away on Wednesday morning at a hospital in Kampala after battling an undisclosed illness. He was in his 70s.
Musinguzi was widely respected for his contributions to Uganda’s business sector and his pivotal role in shaping the country’s opposition politics during the early 2000s. His family had reportedly been preparing to fly him abroad for specialized treatment before his condition deteriorated.
Garuga, as he was commonly known, rose from humble beginnings in Kihihi, Kanungu District, to become one of Uganda’s most prominent entrepreneurs. He owned and operated several businesses including Kigezi Highland Tea Company, which supported the livelihoods of hundreds of farmers and workers in Western Uganda. He also ran a consultancy firm and invested in hospitality ventures such as Garuga Country Club in Entebbe.
His business acumen was matched by a deep commitment to local development. Musinguzi financed and initiated several community infrastructure projects, including schools, roads, and health centres. In Butogota, he donated 2.3 acres of land for the construction of a government health facility.
Garuga was not only a businessman but also a strong political force. He played a foundational role in the establishment of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Uganda’s main opposition party. He was a key financier and strategist for the Reform Agenda led by Dr. Kizza Besigye in the early 2000s.
In 2001, he contested for the Kinkiizi West parliamentary seat against then Minister Amama Mbabazi. Though the court later annulled Mbabazi’s win, Garuga withdrew from the rerun, allowing Mbabazi to return unopposed a move that reflected his commitment to principle over personal ambition.
Despite moments of political disagreement, Garuga remained influential in shaping opposition politics, while also maintaining working relationships with various leaders across the political spectrum.
Musinguzi’s philanthropic efforts were equally significant. He supported development work in Kanungu, Karamoja, and other parts of the country. His projects often focused on improving healthcare access, education, and religious infrastructure. During crises, he was known to offer relief support without seeking attention or political mileage.
He was a firm believer in empowering local communities to take charge of their development, often stating that “real change starts with a vision backed by action.”
News of his death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from political leaders, business communities, and ordinary Ugandans, particularly in Western Uganda where he was regarded as a local hero.
Family sources say burial arrangements are underway and that details will be communicated in the coming days. His passing leaves a big gap not just in politics and business, but in the hearts of many who benefited from his mentorship, generosity, and unwavering patriotism.