“Colleagues… Money Has Come”: Matia Kasaija Is Born Today

“Money Has Come”: Matia Kasaija’s Birthday Celebrates Uganda’s Longest-Serving Minister and Meme LegendMay 28 marks the birthday of veteran politician Matia Kasaija, one of Uganda’s longest-serving public servants and a figure many describe as both a seasoned policymaker and an accidental source of national entertainment.

Born on May 28, 1944, in Kibaale District, Kasaija has built a political journey spanning the Obote II era, the NRA bush war period, and over four decades of service under President Yoweri Museveni. His career has included roles such as Finance Minister, World Bank Group governor, IMF representative, and senior NRA mobiliser.

Beyond his official positions, Kasaija is widely remembered for his memorable public statements that often turned into viral moments. Over time, he became known less for technical policy language and more for his spontaneous, humorous phrasing that resonated with ordinary Ugandans.

One of his most famous expressions, “Colleagues, money will come,” quickly spread beyond Parliament and entered everyday speech. The phrase became a cultural reference point—used jokingly when salaries arrived, when mobile money transfers were received, or even when friends paid small bills.

Another widely shared moment came when he attempted to illustrate economic growth using a lifting airplane gesture, complete with a rising whistle sound to represent the economy “taking off.” The performance became a popular meme because of its visual simplicity and unexpected delivery.

Kasaija also gained attention for his unusually candid remarks in political settings, including humorous admissions about the pressures of approving government spending and controversial statements during public scandals.

During the Karamoja iron sheets controversy, he famously said, “The iron sheets found me in my compound,” a line that quickly entered Uganda’s political humour archive.However, this year’s birthday comes in a different tone.

Following the release of the 2026–2031 cabinet list, Kasaija was dropped from cabinet, ending one of the longest ministerial tenures in Uganda’s recent history. For many Ugandans, his exit symbolises not just a political transition, but the fading of a uniquely unpredictable voice in public service.

While Uganda continues to produce economists, ministers, and technocrats, Kasaija’s blend of fiscal authority and unintended comedy remains difficult to replicate. And even now, as mobile money notifications continue to arrive across the country, his most famous phrase still lingers in everyday conversation:

“Money has come.”