Finance Minister Henry Musasizi has commended Dr Callist Tindimugaya for building a career around purpose, resilience, education and service to Uganda.
Musasizi made the remarks on Friday at Hotel Africana in Kampala while representing former Prime Minister Dr Ruhakana Rugunda as Guest of Honour at the launch of Tindimugaya’s memoir, The Flow of Purpose: From Streams of Childhood to Building Uganda’s Water Future.
The launch, which followed a Thanksgiving Mass, brought together government officials, religious leaders, water-sector professionals, academics, family members and friends to celebrate Tindimugaya’s life and contribution to Uganda’s water sector.
Musasizi described the memoir as more than a personal account, saying it offers important lessons on how purpose can help people remain focused and resilient despite challenges.
“It is purpose that makes us disciplined, stay focused, resilient and trust,” Musasizi said.
He said Tindimugaya’s achievements demonstrate that success is built through education, preparation, hard work and a clear sense of direction.
“Dr Callist built his career with purpose, and his story teaches us never to give up, especially the young ones,” Musasizi said.
The minister also linked Tindimugaya’s career to Uganda’s wider development priorities, particularly investment in education, water and sanitation infrastructure, irrigation and environmental protection.
He noted that Uganda continues to invest in water infrastructure through projects such as the Integrated Water Management and Development Project, as well as gravity-flow schemes, bulk water systems and irrigation initiatives aimed at improving access to water and reducing dependence on rainfall.
Musasizi also praised Tindimugaya’s contribution as Commissioner for Water Resources Planning and Regulation, saying he brought together science, technology, economics, culture and stakeholder participation in managing Uganda’s water resources.
He further credited him with contributing to the establishment of the Water Resources Institute and mobilising support from development partners, including the World Bank, Danida and the Food and Agriculture Organization.
Tindimugaya: Never lose hope
Speaking at the launch, Dr Tindimugaya thanked God, his family, colleagues and the many people who supported him throughout his journey from his childhood and seminary life to scientific training and public service.
His message to the audience, particularly young people, was one of hope, faith and resilience.
“Never lose hope. Be resilient and trust in God always,” Tindimugaya said.
He said humble beginnings should not determine a person’s future, urging young people to remain focused and committed to their goals.
Tindimugaya also used the occasion to highlight his commitment to giving back to the communities that shaped his life.
He said he has supported seven primary schools in Kigezi through food, scholastic materials and other forms of assistance.
He announced that proceeds from The Flow of Purpose will support two primary schools and one secondary school where he studied, as well as churches associated with him in Kigezi and Kampala.
Tindimugaya also thanked Fr. John Byamukama for his contribution to unity and paid tribute to his wife for standing by him throughout his career.
The memoir chronicles Tindimugaya’s journey from humble beginnings to a career in water resources management at national, regional and international levels.
It also reflects on the role of faith, education, discipline and service in shaping his life, while encouraging readers to use their opportunities to contribute to society.
