It is with deep reverence and heartfelt sorrow that we mark the passing of Hon. Rhoda Nakibuuka Nsibirwa Kalema, who peacefully departed this life on August 3, 2025, at the remarkable age of 96.
A beloved mother, mentor, parliamentarian, and pioneer of political inclusion, she leaves behind a legacy of strength, service, and transformational leadership.
From her childhood in the official residence of Buganda’s Katikkiro her father, Martin Luther Nsibirwa to her pioneering education at King's College Budo and Edinburgh University, Rhoda’s journey was shaped by resilience, intellect, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of her country and its people.
Her public service spanned decades. In the years following Uganda’s liberation from dictatorship, Kalema served as Minister of Culture and later as Deputy Minister of Public Service under President Yoweri Museveni.
She represented Kiboga District in Uganda’s Constituent Assembly, helping to craft the 1995 Constitution a critical moment in national governance.
Despite facing personal tragedies including the brutal loss of her husband during Amin’s regime and the deaths of multiple children she remained a steady voice of hope, faith, and community.
She endured multiple arrests for political activism, emerging each time with renewed resolve to support women’s leadership and democratic governance.
Kalema dedicated much of her later life to mentoring future generations of Ugandan leaders, particularly women.
Her influence was profound: colleagues and protégés describe her as a guiding light wise, compassionate, and unwavering in her belief in human dignity and justice.
People came to know her not just for her public roles, but for her grace, spiritual depth, and kindness.
She authored My Life Is But a Weaving, a memoir interweaving her family’s history, personal faith, and Uganda’s journey toward democracy an enduring testament to her life's work and perspective.
Her passing marks the end of an extraordinary life of witness and service. She is survived by her children, including Elizabeth, William, Peter, Apollo, Veronica, and Gladys, as well as grandchildren and countless mentees across political and civic spheres.
A funeral service honoring her life is expected to be held in Kampala, with details to be announced by her family.
Friends and even those she never met are invited to commemorate a life that shaped national discourse and inspired generations.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to causes reflecting her legacy: women’s education, civic leadership programs, or organizations nurturing governance and democracy in Uganda.
Rhoda Nakibuuka Nsibirwa Kalema lived a life of tragedy and triumph, of wisdom forged in adversity, and of courage rooted in faith.
She was, as many said, “a pillar for Uganda’s women and for her nation.
May her memory continue to illuminate paths of dignity, service, and hope.
