President Museveni has granted an official burial to former Minister of Education and Sports, Geraldine Namirembe Bitamazire. This honor comes after her death on January 14, 2026, at the age of 84. Her contributions to Uganda’s education system are widely recognized.
Official Burial Ceremony
Minister for Presidency Ms. Milly Babirye Babalanda confirmed that Bitamazire will be buried on Wednesday at her ancestral home in Kibuga Parish, Masakwa Village, Butambala District. The government has formed a National Organizing Committee to handle the funeral arrangements. Ms. Babalanda is chairing the committee.
“The late Hon Namirembe Bitamazire will receive an official burial,” said Ms. Babalanda, following Article 99 of Uganda’s Constitution. The government will cover all the funeral costs.
A Life of Service
Geraldine Namirembe Bitamazire was born on July 17, 1941, in Kibuga-Masakwa Village, Butambala District. She attended Trinity College Nabbingo and later Makerere University, where she earned a Diploma in Education, a Bachelor of Arts, and a Master of Arts.
Bitamazire was married to Mr. Alfonse Bitamazire. They had seven children. Throughout her career, she worked as an educator, women’s rights advocate, counselor, and politician. She left a lasting impact on Uganda’s education sector.
Legacy in Education Reform
Bitamazire is best known for leading the implementation of Universal Primary Education (UPE). This initiative expanded access to schooling for millions of Ugandans. She also revised the primary school curriculum, boosted enrollment rates, and improved national exam results, including PLE and UCE.
Furthermore, she improved teacher training programs and rehabilitated schools across the country. Bitamazire served as Minister of Education and Sports from 2005 to 2011. She played a key role in shaping Uganda’s education policies during her tenure.
National and International Influence
Bitamazire’s impact reached beyond Uganda. From 1998 to 2001, she served on the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. She also helped found the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE). Additionally, she contributed to the Kajubi Commission, which reviewed Uganda’s education policy.
In her later years, she served as Chancellor of the Uganda Management Institute. Bitamazire’s work in education reform influenced both Uganda and the global community.