Before the remains of Ivan Ssemwanga were on Tuesday laid to the gave at his ancestral home in Kayunga, Rev Edward Kironde Balamaze, who led prayers at this burial read out a letter the deceased’s sons had written.
The children, Pinto, Quincy and Didy Ssemwanga told mourners life will never be the same without their father.
“We think of the good old days when we were so little, consumed in your love and smile. Those days are gone and no matter what we do, life will never be the same. Oh Dad, if only we could turn back time and hear your voice, but God called you to a better place, so peaceful and free from pain. And when we see you sleeping, we could only wish the best for you.” The letter read by Rev Edward Kironde Balamaze on behalf of the Children stated in part.
In his speech, Rev Kironde described the deceased as a fighter and responsible father.
“This message portrays a father of responsibility – they would not have written this – we are in days where fathers are physically, psychologically, spiritually, morally, financially absent. When we come to such a moment and children are able to write such a message, it means that he [Ssemwanga] had respect for the children God gave him.”
Children are a gift from God, Rev Kironde said, no matter how you get them, your role is to take care of them.
“God is calling us to respect that which he has put to our hands. We are praying for the widow and and family.” He stated.
Rev Kironde then quoted Timothy 6: 6 which says; But godliness with contentment is great gain.
He went down to verse 17 that says ; Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.
“This is a message to all the rich men, me inclusive. I refused poverty, just like Ssemwanga. You need to fear God, and respect him.When you respect, love God, you will do the same to fellow man…Once we stand before the Lord, we are all his people. We will take nothing with us in heaven. But fearing the Lord is most vital.”
He testified about being delivered from Alcohol, and advised drunkards about the same possibility if they come to God.
Hundreds turned up for the burial which drew several prominent political personalities, celebrities and well wishers.
Mourners were taken aback when members of the Rich Gang, a group of socialites where Ssemwanga was part, started throwing beer, cash in his grave, as they bid him farewell.
The Ugandan born-South African based socialite breathed his last at a South African hospital last week
He was ex-husband to prominent businesswoman Zari Hassan and said to have succumbed to a stroke which took him to coma for 12 days at Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Pretoria, South Africa.
ALSO READ: Ivan Ssemwanga was far from Church – Preacher tells mourners
editor@ugchristiannews.com
