The nation is in deep grief following the death of Geraldine Namirembe Bitamazire, a pioneering Ugandan academic, politician, and longtime champion of education, who passed away on the evening of January 14, 2026.
Born on July 17, 1941, in Butambala, Central Uganda, Hon. Bitamazire dedicated over five decades to transforming Uganda’s education landscape.
She served twice as Minister of Education and Sports—from 1979 to 1980 and again from 2005 to 2011—earning the affectionate title “Mama UPE” for her pivotal role in expanding Universal Primary Education and promoting access, equity, and women’s empowerment in learning.
Her illustrious career included roles as a classroom teacher, headteacher of Tororo Girls School, senior education officer in the Ministry of Education, deputy chairperson of the Teaching Service Commission, Woman MP for Mpigi District (2001–2011), founding member of the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE), and Chancellor of the Uganda Management Institute (UMI) until her retirement.
News of her passing, confirmed by family sources and announced publicly on January 15, 2026, by figures including UCC’s Irene Kaggwa Sewankambo, spread amid the ongoing election period and internet restrictions, delaying widespread awareness until Thursday. The cause of death has not been officially disclosed.
Tributes have poured in from political leaders, educators, former students, and citizens on social media, honoring her as a principled leader, mentor, and tireless advocate for quality education and gender equality. Many described her legacy as transformative for Uganda’s youth and national development.
Burial arrangements remain pending announcement from the family, with expectations of a state-assisted or dignified send-off befitting her contributions. Further details will be shared as they emerge.
Rest in eternal peace, Hon. Geraldine Namirembe Bitamazire—your impact on Uganda’s education and women will endure for generations.
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