Humanist

Writing in accessible English, GENERAL EDWARD KATUMBA WAMALA shares an intimate portrait of his life from childhood to the current day. Furthermore, and uniquely so, even when writing about significantly traumatic incidences of injustice and cruelty, Gen. Wamala chose to use kind and respectful language; and to use humane descriptions.

Making his book, “ENDURANCE – A SURE SHOT TO VICTORY”, a delightful easy read, which transports and enthrals the reader with Gen. Wamala’s lived experience through six decades of Uganda and more – moreover, spanning all regions of Uganda.

Gen. Wamala, has bequeathed Uganda, in particular, and the world, in general, with an important and significant myth buster. Reading Endurance, one cannot but recognize myths that most in Uganda need to unlearn. This as one reads about Gen. Wamala’s birth and socialisation; how his socialisation shaped his choice of career; and how he functions in the multiple jobs and positions he has held and holds as a duty bearer.

The positive power of extended family bonds, as our ancestors practiced them, shine through Endurance and debunk current popular negative false narratives about the African-extended family structure.

Endurance, indeed, is a useful guide that re-confirms the school of thought that morals are learned in practice and by example; as opposed to expecting one to learn good morals via theoretical training sessions. As in morals are best learnt through ‘do as I do’ as compared to ‘do as I say’. As in walk the talk and others will better learn from you and follow the good morals path. This is a strong takeaway from reading Endurance.

Through Endurance we learn that the way he has lived his life so far and seemingly continues to live his life, Gen. Wamala is a living embodiment of a true patriotic and active citizen of Uganda, among the few who are worthy to be described as elite. He is elite and not elitist, setting him apart as one who is the epitome of AN OFFICER AND GENTLEMAN.

“A man, gentle, unafraid in the face of danger, courteous always without condescension or servility, tactful, honorable in all his relations with mankind, patriotic, subordinate, the true meaning of the phrase, “An Officer and a Gentleman.” Lieutenant (J.G.) H.E. Dow U. S. N. R. F.

I encourage all Ugandans to buy and read Endurance, so as to appreciate the kind of human, parent, leader, and more, that we should all aspire to be. More importantly, in order to unlearn false narratives about us and learn truths. I dare assert, Endurance should be included as recommended reading in school curricula and the basis for lesson plans.