A president lacking vitamin D? Uganda's unpretentious big man

Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni in Johannesburg, South Africa, July 27, 2018. [Reuters]

The Dar es Salaam University political science and economics graduate is known for his collection of wide-brimmed hats which have somewhat become a signature style for him. That has invited a playful comparison of him with the exquisite Kingston-born reggae vocalist Gregory Anthony Isaacs or theatre star Indian Jones (starring Harrison Ford)

Not to forget that he hardly tucks in his baggy and colourful shirts. It is joked that the last time his belt was seen in public, he was in military uniform after forming the Front for National Salvation, which brought salvation to Ugandans after toppling Amin in 1979. Did I mention that his dress code has inspired fashion trends in his country?

Hailing from the little-known town of Ntungamo, Western Uganda, Museveni is known for his sense of humour. No doubt an outspoken one on many fronts, he has time and again shown a playful side during public appearances. He has occasionally made humorous remarks or engaged in good-natured banter with the audience or journalists.

Compared to other African leaders, the father of four is famous for his creative speeches although they can get lengthy and sometimes eccentric. He uses analogies, humorous anecdotes, and unconventional references to make his points.

What is a great speech without moves? As the old adage goes, 'Even a good dancer must know when to exit the stage,' sadly, Museveni has not seen the horizon yet and has been entertaining whoever cares to watch his dance moves that have caught the attention of the media and social media users, leading to humorous GIFs and memes.

Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni addresses the nation at State House in Entebbe, Uganda, on September 9, 2018. [AFP]

His cattle analogies: President Museveni, who loves animal rearing and farming and is known to use metaphors related to cattle and agriculture in his speeches. These analogies can sometimes be amusing.

Cut Museveni some slack! He has a penchant for using cattle analogies where he draws comparisons between his governance style and herding cattle, emphasising the need for strong leadership and guiding the population towards progress.

The president is famed for tending to his traditional long-horned Ankole cattle during his free time. He once ordered the registration and issuance of birth certificates to cattle stating that the move would enable Uganda to penetrate the international market.