The nation is in mourning following the sudden passing of Honorable Sarah Kamateeka Nyirabashiti, the State Minister for Defence and Woman Member of Parliament for Kisoro District.Mateeka, a dedicated public servant and champion for women’s empowerment, died on September 7, 2024. Her elder brother Dr. Gedion Mugisha confirmed. She was 50.Dr. Mugisha said Mateeka experienced a heart attack at her home in Kampala in the wee hours of Saturday morning and was pronounced dead moments after arriving at Mengo Hospital where she had been rushed for treatment.”It’s unfortunate that Sarah died at the time when Kisoro District and Uganda needed her services more. It’s a big loss to our family”. He said. Colleagues and friends describe her as a passionate advocate for peace and security and gender equality. Her contributions to the country’s defence and security sector will be deeply missed.”In her, we have lost a humble and committed servant of the country”. The speaker of Parliament, Annita Annet Among said in her tweet.As news of her passing spread, tributes poured in from a cross the country.
“Heartfelt condolences to her family, the community of Kisoro, @ Kaguta Museveni, the NRM online fraternity, and relatives” Said the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja.
“May her remarkable legacy inspire and comfort us during this difficult time”, Alice Karamuzi Kaboyo, State Minister in the office of the Prime Minister for Luweero Triangle and Rwenzori Region tweeted.
Mateeka’s dedication to her constituency was unwavering, she worked tirelessly to address their concerns and improve lives.
Burial arrangements will be communicated after a family meeting.
May her soul rest in peace.
Report compiled by Teddy Namayanja. She’s a Staff Writer at SML News UG passionate about Politics, Human Rights and Justice.