"The story of Uganda today is an undisputed success story"

On a visit to Uganda at the invitation of President Yoweri Museveni, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi paid tribute to the Ugandan President's exemplary leadership on HIV/ Aids.

Mangosuthu Buthelezi was attending the wedding of former President Godfrey Lukongwa Binasia in Kampala.

Mangosuthu Buthelezi said:

"It gives me great pleasure to be here with you today. One is always delighted to reaffirm old friendships between nations and individuals."

"It is particularly joyful to be present at the wedding of one the founding fathers of post-colonial Africa. I would like to take this solemn opportunity to praise the achievements of President Binaisa, whom we have known as a key player in the political affairs of Uganda since the early 1950s. I also know that President Binaisa has the distinction of being the first Ugandan to be appointed a Queen's Counsel."

"In South Africa, President Binaisa was an inspiration to us in the dark years of apartheid for his instrumental role in demanding self-rule for the Ugandan people. I think it is particularly relevant today that President Binaisa is well-known for being the architect of the movement ideology that he termed 'Ekigaali' or 'Umbrella'."

"This ideology, I believe, gives content and expression to the African principle of ubuntu botho, which speaks of our indivisibility and oneness as an African people. Ubuntu botho has been the touchstone of leadership and a unifying force behind our respective struggles for liberation."

"I believe that President Museveni is a spiritual heir to this practical approach, as one observes the 'umbrella' leadership he has given to combating HIV/Aids in this beautiful country. This has served as an inspiration to all of us across the African continent, and especially us in South Africa."

"Uganda is an example to the world how out of Africa's historic misfortunes, we may find within ourselves the strength, vision and determination to transform our past grievances into tangible progress."

"The story of Uganda today is an undisputed success story. One feels the satisfaction of knowing that after many years in exile, President Binaisa is taking part in Uganda's destiny through today's heart warming occasion. In the words of Martin Luther, 'There is no more lovely, friendly and charming relationship, communion or company than a good marriage'."

"So, with these words, I would like to express my sincere congratulations and those of my people to President Binaisa and his lovely bride, Ms Tomoko Yamamoto. We wish you many years of happiness, good health and marital joy."