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Uganda Grants State Burial for 'Mother of Parliament' Rhoda Kalema

OFFICIAL MEMORIAL UPDATE

Uganda Grants State Burial for 'Mother of Parliament' Rhoda Kalema

By ENS National Desk | Kampala | August 5, 2025

The Government of Uganda has confirmed that **Lay Canon Rhoda Nakibuuka Nsibirwa Kalema**, affectionately known as the "Mother of Parliament," will receive an official burial ceremony on **Saturday, August 9**, in **Kiboga District**. Ms. Kalema passed away on **August 3 in Nairobi**, at the age of 96, after a legacy spanning decades of public service. 1

ENS Human Resource Poster

Minister for the Presidency Milly Babalanda announced the directive, stating: “President Museveni, in line with Article 99 of the Constitution, has directed that the late Rhoda Kalema be accorded an official burial.” 2

A Legacy Celebrated

Kalema’s lifetime achievements included serving as one of the earliest female legislators in Uganda’s post-Amin government, Deputy Minister of Public Service (1989–1991), and a victorious bid to the Constituent Assembly in 1994—where she defeated eight male contenders representing Kiboga District. Her advocacy championed women’s political participation and justice during turbulent eras. 3

About Canon Rhoda Kalema

  • Born **May 10, 1929**, to Buganda Katikkiro Martin Luther Nsibirwa.
  • Educated at **Gayaza High School**, **King’s College Budo**, and pursued studies in social work in Scotland.
  • Co-founded the **Uganda Patriotic Movement** in 1980 and served in transitional legislatures.
  • In 2021, authored her memoir *My Life Is But a Weaving*, capturing her life’s journey from royal roots to public service. 4

What to Expect on August 9

The official burial arrangements are to be chaired by the Minister for the Presidency, in coordination with Kalema’s family and representatives from Buganda Kingdom. Additional details regarding the timeline and ceremonial components will be shared closer to the date. 5

© 2025 ENS News — National Desk

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