Uganda is preparing to honor the life and legacy of Geraldine Namirembe Bitamazire, affectionately known as “Mama UPE”, as her burial is scheduled to take place at her ancestral home in Butambala-Kibugga. Bitamazire passed away on January 14, 2026, at the age of 84, leaving a lasting impact on Uganda’s education system and inspiring generations of students and educators. The family has announced a funeral program leading up to the burial, which is planned for Wednesday, January 21, 2026, following a series of requiem masses and vigils in Kampala and Butambala.

On Monday, January 19, 2026, a requiem mass is scheduled to be held at Our Lady of Fatima in Kansanga Parish, followed by a vigil at her home in Kansanga-Kiwafu. Tuesday, January 20, 2026, a second mass is planned at Lubaga Cathedral at 10:00 AM, after which mourners are expected to proceed to Butambala for an overnight vigil, leading up to the burial mass planned for Wednesday morning. These ceremonies reflect both her deep roots in Butambala and her profound influence on Uganda’s national development.

Born on July 17, 1941, in Butambala, Geraldine Namirembe Bitamazire received her early education at Trinity College Nabbingo and later earned a Diploma, Bachelor of Arts, and Master of Arts in Education from Makerere University. She began her career as a teacher and school leader, including positions at Mt St Mary’s Namagunga and Tororo Girls School, where she became the first African headteacher. Bitamazire later served as Minister of Education and Sports, first in 1979–1980 and later from 2005 to 2011, where she spearheaded Universal Primary Education (UPE), a policy that expanded access to primary schooling across Uganda and earned her the enduring nickname “Mama UPE.” She also held influential positions as Director of the East African Harbours Corporation, Deputy Chairperson of the Teaching Service Commission, Woman Member of Parliament for Mpigi District, and Chancellor of the Uganda Management Institute, as well as serving on the UN Commission on the Status of Women.

Tributes are already pouring in from leaders, educators, and the public, with many highlighting her principled leadership, dedication to education, and commitment to mentoring future generations. Observers and former students describe her as a trailblazer who not only advanced Uganda’s education system but also inspired women leaders and public servants across the nation. Commentators note that her legacy is most visible in the millions of children whose access to education increased under UPE, as well as in the policies and institutions she helped strengthen throughout her long career in public service.

As Uganda prepares for her burial in Butambala, the nation is focused on celebrating the life and contributions of a woman whose vision, dedication, and leadership left a permanent mark. Geraldine Namirembe Bitamazire will be remembered not only for her transformative role in education but also as a symbol of integrity, mentorship, and public service, ensuring that her influence continues to resonate for generations to come.