Akusa used to talk about her seven sisters and one brother and I would marvel. She rolled their names off her tongue,
Barbara, Rebecca, Susan, Dorcas, Moses, Akusa, Fiona, Pauline. The elder sisters would confuse me with their close resemblance. It was Moses, Akusa, Fiona and Pauline whom I became more acquainted with and Akusa (Axa), classmates in Kampala Parents and for a few years at Gayaza High School, who became a friend.
Our friendship grew over our competitive love for sports, our mothers both good friends and members of the United Tropical Planters Association (UTPA) in Uganda, and belonging to larger communities together.
On 31 December of 2025, Axa's dad, Dr. Ignatius James Batwala died.
(courtesy photo)
He was a renowned obstetrician gynaecologist in Uganda, whose care and expertise were well known in Uganda and beyond. A loving father, whose tributes from the children left man hearts warmed, and a loving husband to Ida, his wife of over 50 years.
When they speak of legacy, Dr. Batwala surely created a powerful legacy as a strong and supportive member of his community and a genuine loving father and husband.
In addition, was his work as a doctor. The testimonies from his patients are worth writing down in a book.
Axa may not remember but when m own father died in 1991, she actually made a wreath for us.
To hear the countless tributes poured in for Dr. Batwala is touching and well-deserved.
I pray that for us who are still here walking this earth, we make it a better place everyday; knowing that we do not know when God will call us. It is our duty to bless His name with our work and love our families and communities.
As parents, our children will emulate and embody us.
May they embody a life that is enriched by purpose and faith.
Bless!
Bev
