The Rukiga County Member of Parliament, Hon. Roland Bish Ndyomugyenyi, has joined Ugandans in mourning and celebrating the life of Rhoda Nakibuuka Nsibirwa Kalema, who passed away at the age of 96 in Nairobi, where she had been flown for further medical treatment.
In a heartfelt eulogy posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday, Hon. Ndyomugyenyi described Kalema, widely referred to as the “Mother of Parliament” and a pioneering politician, as a gifted storyteller and dedicated public servant.
He highlighted her service as Deputy Minister of Public Service from 1989 to 1991 under President Yoweri Museveni.
Ndyomugyenyi also recalled how, in 1996, Kalema was honored by the Forum for Women in Democracy as a “transformative leader,” praising her lifelong commitment to uplifting the status of women in Uganda.
“Her selfless service to our country will continue to inspire generations to come,” he said.
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa described Kalema as “a woman of unique character and valour-down-to-earth and amiable.”
He emphasized her critical role in Uganda’s political history, particularly in championing women’s emancipation.
“She earned the title ‘Mother of Parliament’ because of her immense contribution to Uganda’s politics and the empowerment of women,” Tayebwa said.
He noted that Kalema was politically active even before Uganda’s independence and played a pivotal role following the fall of Idi Amin’s regime.
“She joined the Uganda Patriotic Movement (UPM), a bold move that led to at least three documented arrests and detentions in Luzira Prison,” he stated.
Kalema was one of only two female representatives in the National Consultative Council (NCC) formed after Amin’s overthrow. She later represented Kiboga District in the 1994 Constituent Assembly and mentored several prominent Ugandan women politicians.
Tayebwa fondly recalled visiting Kalema at her home in Kibuli in 2023 alongside Miria Matembe.
“We were privileged to tap into her wealth of knowledge on life, politics, and education,” he said. “May her life and contributions continue to inspire us and future generations.”
Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Anitah Annet Among described Kalema as “a mother, mentor, and trailblazer for women in leadership.” She credited Kalema with opening the doors of Parliament to female leaders and shaping Uganda’s legislative history through her service in both Parliament and Cabinet.
“Through her boldness and determination, she mentored many notable female leaders and made lasting contributions to our legislative process,” Among said.
She extended her condolences to President Museveni, the Kingdom of Buganda, Kalema’s family and friends, and the entire nation.
“May her memories inspire us to serve our country better, and may her gentle soul rest in eternal peace,” she concluded.
