By Teddy Namayanja
“On Saturday morning, when we learnt of her death, I thought it was fake news, they said she was badly off. Minister Anyakun called me very early and asked where are you? I told her, stop disturbing me very early, she said get up. I didn’t even have a driver; I didn’t have security. She told me, don’t even shower, and go. Esther was in Karenga, I did what she told me, I got up; I drove myself, no security. On reaching Reached Mengo Hospital, Clerk (Adolf Mwesige) was also calling me, have you heard, I said, I am already here, I am the one to give you the news”. The Speaker of Parliament Annet Anita Among said.
As she spoke, her words were laced with a somber mood, a palpable sense of sorrow and loss that hung in the air like a dark cloud, reflecting the depth of her emotional pain and the weight of her grief.
“Wherever she has worked, especially with the youths and children, where she was before her re-appointment to Ministry of Defense, her humility, dedication and passion, were evident in everything she did. She approached her work with the spirit of service, always placing the needs of others before her own. Mateke’s exemplary leadership and selflessness were not just admirable, they were inspirational,” The Prime Minister of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Robina Nabbanja said.
These heartfelt tributes from the Prime Minister and the Speaker, encapsulates the enduring legacy of the late Minister of State for Defense and Kisoro District Woman Member of Parliament, Sarah Mateke, and reflects the somber mood that settled over Parliament replacing its usual vibrant atmosphere, as Legislators, Government Officials, other dignitaries, family, friends and relatives of the late Mateke gathered this afternoon at Parliament to celebrate her life and mourn her passing.
The air was heavy with grief, and the corridors, once filled with lively debates and discussions, were now hushed and solemn. The faces of those present were etched with sadness, and the occasional sniffle or whispered condolence broke the silence. The parliament’s flag flew at half-mast, a poignant symbol of the nation’s loss, as the community came together to pay their respects to a dedicated public servant and leader.
This afternoon, a requiem mass was held to honor the life and legacy of the late Sarah Mateke.
During the service, tributes and eulogies poured in from various leaders, praising Minister Mateke’s dedication, leadership, and commitment to serving the nation. The President’s message, read aloud by the Speaker, described Minister Mateke as a “patriot and a true servant of the people” who will be deeply missed.
Her contributions to the country’s defense and security have left such an indelible mark on the nation.
Other leaders, including the Leader of Opposition and the Minister of State for Defense, delivered heartfelt eulogies, sharing personal anecdotes and stories of Minister Mateke’s bravery, compassion, and vision.
“Mateke distinguished herself as a committed servant and as a Minister of State for Defense, she will be profoundly missed. Her leadership of dedication will continue to inspire us and guide us forward”, Markson Oboth, Minister of Defense and Veteran Affairs described her.
Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba of the Church of Uganda remembered Sarah Mateke as a humble churchgoer who preferred to sit in the back, unlike other leaders who often arrived late and expected to be seated in the front. He praised her humility and contributions to the church, saying she was a devoted servant of God.
As the mass progressed, the atmosphere remained somber, with many in attendance visibly moved by the tributes and the occasion. The requiem mass served as a fitting tribute to Minister Mateke’s life and legacy, celebrating her achievements and mourning her untimely passing.
“Times such as these should pose each of us as a moment of reflection. Of what sort of account, we shall give to both who survive our demise and those we meet during eternity. We should be able to reflect. When I reached the hospital and I was alone, I asked MP Esther Anyakun, when I am lying here, will there be somebody”, said the Speaker, Annet Anita Among.
The service concluded with a final farewell, as the congregation bid last respects to the late minister, whose memory will continue to inspire and motivate future generations of leaders.
Here is the funeral Program
TUESDAY,10 September, 2024
- Church service at All saints’ Cathedral, Kampala at 8:00am
- The body will be transported to parliament for viewing at 12:00Noon
- Parliament will hold a special sitting at 2:00pm
WEDNESDAY,11 September ,2024
- The body will be transported to Nyakabingo, Kisoro District at 9:00 am
- Council Session at 00pm. to pay tribute to the late
- Church Service at 4:00pm
- Overnight vigil.
THURSDAY, 12 September ,2024
- Church service at Nyakabingo
- Burial