Kayemba Afaayo turns guns on NUP’s Namayanja for Masaka City Mayors seat ahead of Uganda’s 2026 elections

Masaka City’s elevation to city status in July 2020 under the guidance of Buganda’s Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II marked a turning point for the region.

Yet, behind this transformation lies the story of a man whose vision, leadership, and people-first approach shaped the city’s trajectory for decades Godfrey Kayemba, fondly known as Afaayo, or “the one who cares.”

As Mayor Kayemba prepares to re-enter the political fray in the 2026 general elections, his legacy offers invaluable lessons for current leadership, including Mayor Florence Namayanja.

A Humble Beginning: Early Life and Family Background

Born on 15th August 1971 at Masaka Regional Referral Hospital, Godfrey Kayemba grew up in modest circumstances. His parents, Simon Ssuuna Ssempiri and Evelyn Nakawuka, initially resided in Bwesa village, Kalungu District, before his mother relocated to her parental home in Bugerere, Luwero District. These early years, shaped by rural simplicity and family resilience, instilled in him the virtues of hard work, discipline, and community connection—qualities that would later define his approach to leadership.

Inspiration from a Hardworking Father

Kayemba’s father, Ssempiri, worked as a labourer at Nytil Company in Jinja, enduring long hours to support his family. Observing his father’s resilience, young Kayemba internalized the values of perseverance and responsibility. His schooling began in Jinja, offering him exposure beyond his rural surroundings and inspiring a mindset geared toward ambition and leadership. These formative years laid the foundation for a life dedicated to service, community development, and urban transformation.

Education: Shaping a Future Leader

Kayemba’s academic journey mirrors determination and perseverance. He attended Main Street Primary School and Sala Primary School in Jinja before moving back to Masaka to enroll at St. Henry’s College Kitovu. He later completed his A-Level studies at Masaka Secondary School in 1987. Beyond academics, Kayemba’s school life was characterized by active participation in student leadership, debates, and clubs—platforms that honed his public speaking, decision-making, and organizational skills. Even in these early days, the future mayor displayed a rare ability to balance intellect with empathy, a trait that would later define his political career.

Early Career and Grassroots Engagement

After secondary school, Kayemba faced the reality of limited employment opportunities. With few white-collar jobs available and lacking formal office skills, he ventured into the boda boda business under Masaka Municipal Council supervision. While modest, this work introduced him to the challenges of local commerce and urban governance, and offered firsthand insight into the lives of ordinary Masaka residents. This early engagement with the community cemented his reputation as a leader who understands grassroots concerns.

Political Roots: A Calling from Youth

Kayemba’s political instincts were evident during his school years. Inspired by leaders like Bill Clinton and John F. Kennedy, he immersed himself in student politics, eventually serving as the school clubs coordinator at Masaka Secondary School under Head Teacher Waggwa Sseguya. These formative experiences instilled in him the importance of civic engagement, leadership, and public service. By the time he became Youth Councillor during Mayor Tebyasa Matovu’s tenure, many already recognized him as a future political force capable of transforming Masaka.

Rising through the Political Ranks

In 2008, Kayemba made his first bid for a parliamentary seat in the Kalungu District by-elections. Though unsuccessful, he treated the experience as a learning opportunity rather than a setback. By 2011, at age 40, he successfully contested for the Mayor of Masaka Municipality, ushering in a new era of proactive leadership. His tenure was defined by bold initiatives, visionary planning, and a commitment to inclusivity that transcended party politics.

Transforming Masaka: Kayemba’s Tenure as Mayor

Kayemba’s leadership left an indelible mark on Masaka. Known for his charisma, social connectivity, and passion for youth development, he prioritized infrastructure and urban renewal. Under his guidance:

Streetlights were installed across Masaka through the Uganda Support for Municipal Infrastructure Development (USMID) program, initially 350 in 2012 and later expanded by 730 under the Electricity Development Sector Programme. These projects enhanced security and boosted nighttime commerce.

Educational facilities were renovated, ensuring schools could better serve students.

Masaka Regional Referral Hospital and multiple health centres—including Kasana Maternity, Kitabaazi, and Kyabakuza—received significant upgrades, improving healthcare access for residents.

Markets were modernized. The Nyendo Market, accommodating 2,000 traders, was refurbished at Shs25 billion, while Masaka Municipality Market restoration works began at Shs20 billion, positioning Masaka as a regional commercial hub.

Streetlights were installed across Masaka through the Uganda Support for Municipal Infrastructure Development (USMID) program, initially 350 in 2012 and later expanded by 730 under the Electricity Development Sector Programme. These projects saw contractors Long Dian, Ssazi Group, Traminco and China Way as endorsed contractors and enhanced security and boosted nighttime commerce.

Educational facilities were renovated, ensuring schools could better serve students.

His commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment also saw improvements in road networks, security, and public utilities, creating a platform that attracted both local and international investors.

Controversies and Challenges

No leadership journey is without challenges. Kayemba faced criticism for selling city assets such as the Mayor’s Garden to private investors, and his administration struggled to resolve the long-standing taxi park issue. Yet, even amidst controversies, his results-driven approach and vision for Masaka’s development ensured lasting gains for the city’s economy and infrastructure.

Legacy and Lessons for Mayor Namayanja

When Florence Namayanja assumed office in 2021, she inherited a city already transformed by Kayemba’s strategic foresight. Namayanja, who previously served as Bukoto East MP and collaborated with former Kampala Mayor Nasser Ntege Ssebaggala, brought her own political expertise. Yet, it is Kayemba’s legacy that serves as a blueprint for Masaka’s continued growth. Key lessons include:

Leveraging government programs for infrastructure and urban development.

Prioritizing inclusive governance that bridges political divides.

Investing in markets and business hubs to create thriving commercial zones.

Addressing security and utility challenges to attract investors.

Namayanja’s emphasis on women empowerment and tourism development complements Kayemba’s groundwork, but his achievements—especially in infrastructure, healthcare, and market modernization—remain the benchmark for the city’s growth.

Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond

As Masaka City moves toward the 2026 general elections, Godfrey Kayemba has already been nominated and is actively contesting for the Masaka City Mayor seat, signaling his determination to reclaim leadership and build upon his legacy. His agenda goes beyond politics; he is focused on completing unfinished projects, including the long-delayed Masaka City Town Hall, demolished in 1987, while positioning Masaka as a premier business-friendly city that attracts both local entrepreneurs and international investors.

Kayemba’s leadership story reflects more than political ambition—it embodies visionary governance, strategic infrastructure development, and community-focused service delivery. His previous tenure demonstrates how bold, inclusive, and results-driven leadership can transform a city, creating opportunities for economic growth and social ~empowerment. For Mayor Namayanja and other future leaders, Kayemba’s ongoing campaign offers lessons in integrating business, urban renewal, and civic engagement, ensuring Masaka continues to thrive as a hub of progress and investment.