Voice to the wild

By Agnes E. Nantaba

Andrew Seguya is the Executive Director of Uganda Wildlife Authority. He spoke to Agnes E. Nantaba

Any three things we don’t know about you?

Quite few; I am one person who loves social engagement especially sports. I used to play soccer in my better days. I believe that in every person, there is a gene for success only that some people discover it late or others are unfortunate to never discover it. I am happily married with three children.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

When you are at peace with yourself; but also when your convictions are very clear with your actions, and when you believe that you have done the best in this world.

What is your greatest fear?

I don’t fear anything that has life because they are all God’s creation. But I can’t hide my fear for injections on any part of my body.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?

Nothing, because I have learnt to deal with my weaknesses to make them opportunities.

What is the trait you most deplore in others?

I deal with colours and that is black and white; anything grey is dangerous. Dishonesty should not be on my plate.

Which living person do you most admire?

Barack Obama. Not because he is the president of USA but because he is an embodiment of success through hard work.

What is your greatest extravagance?

I don’t live an extravagant life although I would not mind spending on a good car. I currently drive a Range Rover Sport and once you drive it you don’t need many.

What is your current state of mind?

At peace with myself.

What do you consider the most overrated virtue?

In Uganda, we overrate Education. There is a belief that unless you go through formal education, you can never be successful.

On what occasion do you lie?

When I am really late for an engagement because I mentally feel bad about it.

What do you most dislike about your appearance?

Absolutely nothing; half of the things that we grapple with are a result of our lifestyle.

Which living person do you most despise?

I don’t despise people but I hate anyone who is double-faced.

What is the quality you most like in a man?

Being the leader and a decision maker.

What is the quality you most like in a woman?

Women are the softer side of men; she must be loving and ready to give solace.

What or who is the greatest love of your life?

My wife of course because she keeps me focused.

When and where were you happiest?

I am always happy but having graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Medicine from Makerere University. It was not only the longest but also the hardest course at University.

Which talent would you most like to have?

Making money;  You can do the hardest of work without getting money.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

Nothing and absolutely nothing.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Being a voice to the voiceless.

If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what would it be?

I love my self so I don’t mind coming back as I am.

Where would you most like to live?

Heaven; I am told that the roads are made up of gold and life is free from hustling and huddles

What is your most treasured possession?

Life; it is the ultimate loss. You can afford to get anything back but not life.

What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?

Loss of self-esteem.

What is your favorite occupation?

Working with the wild and being their voice.

What do you most value in your friends?

Just being themselves and as long as they remain that, we can always be friends.

Who are your favorite writers?

I read anything technological and there are no standard writers for such. However from all of them, I have learnt that anything is possible.

Who is your hero of fiction?

The fact that I live in the real world makes me no fan of fiction.

Which historical figure do you most identify with?

Nelson Mandela because he did what he believed in to the end.

Who are your heroes in real life?

Barack Obama for succeeding where nobody expected.

What are your favorite names?

May be mine; Andrew because it’s manly.

What is it that you most dislike?

I don’t  hate permanently.

What is your greatest regret?

Nothing and I would do anything over and over again.

How would you like to die?

Peacefully in my sleep.

What is your motto?

Just do it .