President Yoweri Museveni has granted Madina Najjemba Amin, widow of former President Idi Amin Dada, a monthly allowance of Shs 15 million.
He has also directed that she be provided with a 4×4 vehicle, a new house, and medical insurance.
The decision follows Najjemba’s personal appeal to the president for assistance. In a letter dated November 9, 2023, Museveni wrote:
“I have seen your letter of the 9th November, 2023. How are you? It is good that you wrote to me. By the copy of this letter, I direct the State House Comptroller to buy you a car (4×4), build you a house, ensure you get medical insurance, and give you an allowance of Shs 15 million per month.”
Idi Amin came to power in 1971 through a military coup that overthrew President Milton Obote. His eight-year rule was marked by widespread human rights abuses, political repression, and economic collapse. He was overthrown in 1979 by Ugandan exiles with the backing of Tanzanian forces.
Despite Museveni’s longstanding criticism of Amin’s regime, his support for Najjemba signals a rare gesture of reconciliation. In his letter, the president also questioned the fate of any official benefits owed to Amin and his family.
“What happened to Idi Amin’s entitlements? Who took the money?” Museveni asked.
These remarks point to lingering uncertainties about the status of the former president’s estate and whether any official privileges were ever honored. The move has sparked speculation over past mismanagement or appropriation of benefits meant for Amin’s surviving family.
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