Following the release of the new Cabinet by His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on 26 May 2026, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development bids farewell to Hon. Dr. Canon Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, who has served as Minister of Energy and Mineral Development since 2021
Over the last five years, Hon. Nankabirwa has provided visionary, strategic and transformative leadership that has left an enduring mark on Uganda’s energy, petroleum and mineral sectors.
Her tenure coincided with some of the most significant milestones in the Ministry’s history, including the commissioning of the 600MW Karuma Hydropower Project, progress towards First Oil, advancement of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), expansion of electricity access, growth of renewable energy initiatives, promotion of clean cooking, strengthening of the mineral sector and the implementation of critical policy and legislative reforms.
Beyond the achievements, Hon. Nankabirwa will be remembered for her passion, energy, optimism and unwavering belief in the Ministry’s staff. She consistently encouraged teams to celebrate and communicate their achievements, helping raise the visibility of the sector and strengthening stakeholder confidence in the Ministry’s work.
To many staff, she was more than a Minister. She was a mentor, motivator and champion of excellence who inspired professionalism, teamwork and dedication.
Her warmth, humility, wise counsel and personal interest in staff welfare created a sense of belonging and purpose within the Ministry family.
As one staff member aptly observed, “Before you came, we worked hard and kept quiet about our achievements. You taught us to appreciate the work of our hands and share our successes with the world.”
“You taught us to appreciate the work of our hands and to communicate our achievements with confidence.”
On behalf of the Management and Staff of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Hon. Dr. Canon Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu for her dedicated service, steadfast leadership and immense contribution to Uganda’s development.
As she embarks on a new chapter of public service, we wish her continued success, good health and God’s abundant blessings.
Thank you, Hon. Minister. Your legacy will continue to inspire us for years to come.
