Tayebwa expressed gratitude to Kyemba for his invaluable contribution in documenting Uganda's history, ensuring that future generations would have a profound understanding of the country's origins.
"We acknowledge Kyemba as a man who served humanity in numerous capacities, even as a Rotarian. Until his passing, he continued to volunteer his time and efforts to positively impact lives. As students of history, we recognize the pivotal role he played in exposing the atrocities of the Idi Amin regime, mobilizing countless individuals to end the brutality inflicted upon Ugandans,"Tayebwa said.
First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga represented the government in paying tribute to Kyemba, hailing him as a staunch advocate and champion of democracy, good governance, peace, and the enhancement of public administration.
"He was an industrious leader who played an immeasurable role in shaping Uganda's destiny, serving the nation with unwavering dedication and patriotism," Kadaga said.
Kyemba, born on December 8, 1939, in Mayuge district, passed away at URO Care Hospital in Kampala due to complications related to diabetes.
The veteran Ugandan politician, civil servant, and author was 84 years old at the time of his demise on October 19.
Having been thrust into the heart of Uganda's political landscape at a young age, Kyemba's journey began when he was appointed as Assistant Secretary in Charge of Ceremony and Protocol.
He later served as Principle Private Secretary to Milton Obote, the first Prime Minister of Independent Uganda.
Kyemba and Obote had initially crossed paths at Busoga College Mwiri in the mid-fifties and appeared destined to share a tumultuous life together.
Reflecting on his appointment, Kyemba revealed his overwhelming emotions upon assuming the role as a recent graduate of Makerere University, where he obtained a Bachelor's degree in History from the institution affiliated with the University College of London.
Transitioning from a civil servant to an accidental politician, Kyemba held various positions, including Permanent Secretary, Private Personal Secretary, and eventually, a cabinet minister in the health sector during Idi Amin's administration.
Colleagues who worked closely with Kyemba describe him as shrewd, intrepid, and possessing high emotional intelligence.
His ability to navigate relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds was exceptional, evidenced by his adept handling of his superior, Idi Amin, during the 1970s.
While accompanying Obote on a delegation to Singapore in 1971, Kyemba was stunned by the news of the coup that had overthrown his boss in Uganda.
Following a brief period in exile with Dr. Obote in Tanzania, Kyemba returned to Uganda under the leadership of Idi Amin.
Amin promptly instructed Kyemba to resume his duties as principal private secretary, eventually promoting him to permanent secretary and later appointing him as the health cabinet minister.
Kyemba was among the first government officials to disclose details about the suspicious deaths of hundreds of Ugandans during the Amin regime, including the Archbishop Janan Luwum and ministers Erinayo Wilson Oryema and Charles Oboth Fumbi.
His book, "A State of Blood," challenged the official narrative of their deaths as an accident, asserting that the bodies were riddled with bullets.
Born to Suzana Babirizangawo Mutekanga and Suleiman Kisajja, a colonial administrator in Bunya County, Busoga, Kyemba attended local primary schools before enrolling at Busoga College Mwiri for his Cambridge School Certificate (1951-1956).
He pursued higher education at Makerere University from 1957 to 1962, earning a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) degree in History.
Additionally, he held a master's degree in history from Northwestern University, Evanston, and a Certificate in African studies from the same university. He also obtained an Honours degree in history from London University