President Museveni has hailed the late former Minister of Education, Geraldine Namirembe Bitamazire, for her extraordinary contributions to Uganda's education sector, describing her as an outstanding educationalist who dedicated her life to nurturing the country's human capital.
Bitamazire passed away on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the age of 84.
In a message read by Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo during Bitamazire's burial at Kibugga Village, Budde Subcounty, Butambala District, Museveni highlighted the late minister's pivotal role in advancing Uganda's education system.
"During her tenure as Minister of Education and Sports, she oversaw the critical phases of rolling out Universal Primary Education and Universal Secondary Education in both urban and rural areas," the message read.
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Museveni further praised Bitamazire's efforts in introducing and implementing progressive, pro-people education policies.
"The country has lost a great leader whose talent and experience will be dearly missed. Mama Janet and I send our sincere prayers to the family of the late Geraldine Namirembe Bitamazire," the message continued.
Vice President Alupo, who succeeded Bitamazire as Minister of Education, described her as a supportive mentor, motherly figure, and dedicated educationalist.
"I remember when I had just taken over from her as the new Minister of Education and Sports, she encouraged me to seek her support whenever needed. This guidance helped me serve successfully and remain grounded in my faith while serving the country," Alupo said.
The Speaker of Parliament, Annet Anita Among, stated on X (formerly Twitter) that Parliament had been officially informed of Bitamazire's passing, describing her as a leader who served her country with dedication both in the legislature and in the cabinet.
"Her unwavering commitment to public service and her contributions to our nation will always be remembered," the post read.
Rt. Rev. Anthony Ziwa, Bishop of Kiyinda-Mityana Catholic Diocese, praised Bitamazire for her contributions to both the Church and the nation's education sector, describing her as "a loving mother to hundreds" and highlighting her exemplary parenting skills.
The Minister of State for Education, John Chrysestom Muyingo, lauded Bitamazire's tireless advocacy for Universal Primary Education (UPE), a reform that earned her the affectionate title "Mama UPE."
His message, read by Harriet Ssenkaali, Assistant Commissioner for Private Schools and Institutions, emphasized her lasting legacy in shaping Uganda's human capital.
Professor Patrick Eldrine Kyamanywa, Vice Chancellor of Uganda Martyrs' University and one of Bitamazire's children, recounted personal memories of their mother, describing her as a loving and supportive parent whose influence extended far beyond her immediate family.
Born on July 17, 1941, in Butambala, Gombe, Central Uganda, Bitamazire received her early education at Trinity College Nabbingo and later attended Makerere University, earning a Diploma in Education, a Bachelor of Arts, and a Master of Arts degree.
She began her professional career as a teacher at Mt. St. Mary's Namagunga and Tororo Girls School, where she became the first African headteacher, marking the start of a distinguished career in national leadership.
Her public service spanned decades, including roles as Director of the East African Harbours Corporation (1971-1973), Senior Education Officer in the Ministry of Education (1974-1979), Minister of Education (1979-1980), Deputy Chairperson of the Teaching Service Commission (1981-1996), State Minister for Education (1999-2005), and Minister of Education and Sports (2005-2011). In elective politics, she represented Mpigi District as Woman Member of Parliament from 2001 to 2011.
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Bitamazire is widely celebrated for her transformative role in implementing Universal Primary Education, which expanded access to education nationwide.
Beyond Uganda, she contributed to global education initiatives, serving on the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, as a founding member of the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE), and later as Chancellor of the Uganda Management Institute (UMI).
She was married to the late Alphonce Bitamazire of the Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) and was a loyal cadre of the National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Bitamazire is survived by seven children--three daughters and four sons--and at least ten grandchildren.
