By Bill Dan Arnold Borodi
Former students of Uganda Christian University (UCU) have mobilised and renovated the home of Mr. Ben Bella Illakut, in his ancestral village of Komolo, Aka Dot, Mukongoro Sub-county in Kumi District. Mr Illakut was a founding member of the Department of Mass Communication.
During the handover ceremony on 1st November, 2025, Barbra Victoria Namubiru, who spoke on behalf of the project team leader Prof. Monica Chibita said, “Uncle Ben, as former students of UCU, we came together and mobilised to renovate your home. We are here to hand over the completed house and a few household items as you grow older and stronger, from the goodness of our hearts.”
Commenting on the gesture, Mr. John Semakula, the Head of Department (Undergraduate) said Illakut’s former students were grateful for what he has done for them.
“His former students wanted to appreciate him for giving them the kind of training that has enabled them to be where they are now. He is now living comfortably, and we are grateful,” he said.
A visibly happy Ben Bella thanked his former students for their kindness. “I am going to live comfortably… People here sleep on the floor, but for me, I am different, completely different, and I enjoy it. I am very pleased with your arrival,” he said.
According to Daniel Ogwang, who worked with the Department of Mass Communication as an office assistant between 2009 and 2011 Illakut was known for his simplicity and kindness.
“He had a huge sense of humor and took life simply. He never had any fights with anybody”, Ogwang said. “He treated his staff and students fairly, which made him loved by many.”
The project to renovate Illakut’s house was presented to his former students by Douglas Olum and an initial site visit was conducted on 8th March this year to assess the condition of the home which was built in the late 1990s and had deteriorated over time.
According to Ogwang, the renovation included roofing and installation of a solar system, painting, installation of a water tank (making it the second house in the village with running water), adding flush toilets, and biodigester waste management system, and a ceiling to the house.
The project was estimated to cost Shs15 million and the team was able to collect Shs15.5 million, Namubiru said.
Illakut had earlier been honoured by members of the university. On 9th September, UCU unveiled the Ben Bella Illakut Studios, now home to the multimedia centre for the SJMC, in honour of his legacy.
Beyond UCU, Illakut also taught at Bishop Barham University College in Kabale, Bishop Stuart University in Mbarara, and All Saints University in Lira.
