Janet Museveni Tests Positive for COVID-19 Amidst Seasonal Gatherings
Uganda's First Lady, Janet Museveni, has tested positive for COVID-19, with confirmation coming after initial rapid tests returned a negative result.
Alex Carter
- 2023-12-30
- Updated 12:23 AM ET
(NewsNibs) - On Christmas Day, December 25, 2023, while partaking in a festive meal, Uganda’s First Lady began to experience a sore throat. Despite an initial rapid COVID-19 test returning negative, persistent symptoms such as weakness, a headache, and her continuous sore throat led her to undergo a PCR test in Mbarara. This subsequent and more accurate test confirmed that Janet Museveni was indeed suffering from a COVID-19 infection.
President Museveni’s Health Status
As the virus reached the presidential family, President Yoweri Museveni also underwent testing on December 26, 2023. His test results showed no signs of the virus, allowing him to continue his presidential duties unimpeded. Meanwhile, following her diagnosis, Janet Museveni began the mandated self-isolation process in the family's private residence in Rwakitura, located in the rural Kiruhura District of Western Uganda. This property, known for its tranquility, is also where President Yoweri Museveni has his homestead.
Presidential Duties Continue
In the light of the First Lady's health event, President Museveni's responsibilities persisted without delay. On Wednesday, he engaged in strategic discussions with General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, focusing on the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Additionally, he announced an upcoming meeting slated for January 2, 2024, with local cattle keepers in the Kiruhura District, evidencing his commitment to the community despite the family's medical concerns.
Public reassurance coupled with the continuation of state activities demonstrate the Museveni family's resolve to maintain governance rhythms even as they negotiate personal health challenges. The scheduled engagement with local cattle keepers hints at focusing on domestic affairs, a signal to the Ugandan populace of the President's focus on local issues and continuity of leadership.
