By Gen Sabiiti Muzeyi
I honour the life, service, and legacy of comrade Eng Gerald Lumu Galiwango, a steadfast patriot, a disciplined professional, and a loyal servant of this nation.
Comrade Lumu joined Luwero Industries (LIL) on 4 July 1995, just a year after its commissioning. For nearly three decades, he became one of the most respected and influential members of our engineering and defense fraternity.
In defense circles, his name became synonymous with LIL – a testament to the profound mark he left on the institution and its legacy. Indeed, he was a soldier of STEEL and Service.
Lumu studied at SMACK for both O and A levels before joining the University of Nairobi, where he graduated with honors in mechanical engineering.
Before returning home to serve, comrade Lumu built a solid foundation in Nairobi Kenya, where he worked diligently in the field with Kenya Baati Ltd and other factories. Along this, he served his motherland in supporting the Ugandan liberation efforts led by Gen Yoweri Museveni
His engineering experience would prove invaluable to his country while working at LIL, where he served as a mechanical engineer, chief engineer, and Deputy General Manager. His leadership was defined by technical brilliance, integrity, and unwavering work ethic. He was not just an engineer; he was a force multiplier.
Under his pivotal supervision, LIL executed critical modifications to land, air, and water defense platforms and weapons… enhancing Mambas, artillery munitions, and other key military equipment that directly enhanced the operational capability of the UPDF in both counterinsurgency and peacekeeping missions.
His technical competence and integrity did not go unnoticed. He was entrusted by the President and Commander in Chief, HE Gen (Rtd) YK Museveni with several high level assignments- most recently on the Kilembe mines committee contributing to the revival of a strategic national asset.
Despite his vast experience, comrade Lumu remained a humble learner-open to new ideas, respectful to emerging technologies, and grounded in scientific reasoning.
He was a consummate reader, always up-to-date with the latest in his field, and he possessed a remarkable memory and record keeping ability. Thanks to him, the technical data and factory records were always accurate, organised, and accessible.
During the recent restructuring of LIL, he played a key role in preserving the institutional memory, guiding policy formation and ensuring that the strong DNA of the past was embedded in the structure, while helping to shape a modern and sustainable structure and in the development of the HR Manual that will continue to guide the factory’s operations.
Beyond the machinery and the manuals, comrade Lumu had the heart of mentorship. He trained engineers, technologists, technicians, intern students, etc many of whom continue to serve at LIL and others in service else where. It is indeed true that no candle burns out while lighting another candle.
In the early stages of partnership with KMC, he provided essential technical support. That time he was deputising Gen Mugira. One of the first buses produced at LIL under this collaboration has transported LIL staff today, courtsey of Eng Paul Musasizi, CEO KMC- a fitting symbol of his impact and collaboration.
His discipline and accountability was unmatched. He never left his workplace without notifying leadership- a small gesture, perhaps but one that speaks volumes about his sense of responsibility. As chairperson of the Disciplinary committee, he was well known for his fair and frank voice always guided by truth rather than favour.
Today, the NEC community, and especially his beloved LIL, mourns a great loss. But even in sorrow, we stand tall in gratitude for having worked alongside him.
In recognition of his distinguished service, and on the advice and clearance of the MD NEC, LIL will name it’s newly constructed staff mess in his honour- a lasting tribute to a man who gave his all.
Comrade Lumu has fought a good fight. He has completed his mission. His tools are down, but his legacy will continue to build this nation. Whoever works for the common good outlives himself.
We salute you comrade. Rest in Honour comrade Lumu
Fare thee well.
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