Written By | Peter Luzinda
Tumwebaze's thin-looking picture had people worried about his health, but he clarified that he's not sick
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KYANKWANZI
Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze has addressed public concern over his recent weight loss, using the opportunity to raise awareness about misconceptions surrounding body weight and non-communicable diseases. In a message directed to citizens who were worried about his health, as well as to health professionals, including nutritionists, following the circulation of a photo of him looking thin in Kyankwanzi on social media, Tumwebaze said he is concerned about persistent attitudes that wrongly associate being overweight with good health.
“The battle against non-communicable diseases is far from being won,” he noted, warning that the belief that being heavy equates to being healthy remains widespread but misguided.
He emphasized that maintaining a lean body should not be viewed negatively, arguing that it is often a sign of good health rather than illness.
“The dominant but mistaken thinking that being overweight means being healthy, while being slim means being unhealthy, is a serious cause for alarm. To the contrary, a lean body is a strong one,” he said.
Tumweze said his weight loss is intentional, through dieting and lifestyle changes
Intentional Weight Loss
Tumwebaze clarified that his weight loss is intentional and achieved through lifestyle changes, dismissing speculation that it may be linked to illness.
He explained that weight loss should only raise concern when it is unintentional or linked to underlying health conditions.
“Weight loss can only be worrying if it is unintentional and unexplained, often due to malnutrition or chronic illness. But when it is intentional—through dieting, physical activity, and lifestyle changes—it is something to celebrate,” he stated.
Tumwebaze before weight loss
Lifestyle Awareness
The minister encouraged the public to embrace healthy living practices, noting that achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight requires discipline and conscious effort.
“Obesity has never been a badge of honour,” he stressed.
He acknowledged that changes in physical appearance can sometimes raise concern among the public but reassured citizens that his condition is not health-related.
“To those sending messages of ‘quick recovery,’ I appreciate the concern, but I am not sick. My new look is intentional,” he said.
Tumwebaze shared his remarks while at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi, often referred to as a key political training centre. He concluded by expressing gratitude for life and good health.
“It is well with me, and I thank God for all His blessings, especially the gift of life,” he said.
Torch Media Africa
