Former PM Rugunda Leads Tributes for Late Rubanda Tycoon Vanansio Babweyaka

Rubanda: Vanansio Babweyaka, a renowned business tycoon, has been eulogized by former Prime Minister Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda as a man who championed education and supported the needy throughout his life.

Born on October 20, 1949, to Yohana Nyamurya and Evalina Kokyenga in Rwakayundo Cell, Bushuura Ward, Hamuhambo Town Council in Rubanda District, Babweyaka was one of seven siblings, three of whom are still alive: Loy Zaribwende, Rwanzigu Posiano, and Deudanta Gararengana.

He is survived by his wife, Melania Babweyaka, 10 children (3 boys and 7 girls), 42 grandchildren, and 23 great-grandchildren. Notably, he was also an uncle to Libino Byamukama, a journalist with Eye Television and Hope Radio.

Babweyaka is suspected to have succumbed to cancer at Mulago Hospital on Friday, May 16, 2025. He began his career as a tailor and designer before venturing into the timber business, hostels, tree planting, and animal farming.

During the funeral mass held at his ancestral home in Bushuura Ward, Hamuhambo Town Council, where he was laid to rest on May 19, Dr. Rugunda praised Babweyaka for supporting education and uplifting many people in his community. He said the late tycoon actively fundraised for development projects, including mobilizing friends in Kampala to support the construction of Rwakayundo Catholic Church, his home church.

Dr. Rugunda called on the public to emulate Babweyaka’s legacy of compassion, generosity, and unity.

The family, led by his widow Melania Babweyaka, described him as a unifier who always promoted harmony among his relatives.

Rubanda West MP Hon. Kamuntu Moses Mwongyera praised him for creating employment for many Ugandans through his various projects.

LC5 Chairperson Ampeire Stephen Kasyaba hailed Babweyaka for his non-partisan love and unwavering support for the people of Rubanda, noting that he always treated everyone equally, regardless of their political affiliation.

During the requiem mass on the evening of May 18, State Minister for Finance (General Duties) Hon. Henry Musasizi and Commissioner of Parliament Akampurira Mbabazi Prossy also commended the late Babweyaka for being a peace-loving man who empowered many through employment and development initiatives.