State Minister for Defence, Sarah Nyirabashitsi Dead
The Minister of state for Defence and Veteran Affairs who is also Kisoro District Woman Member of Parliament, Sarah Nyirabashitsi Mateke has passed away at the age of 50. Her brother, Dr. Gedion Mugisha, confirmed that she suffered a heart attack at her home in Kampala during the early hours of Saturday and was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at Mengo Hospital for treatment.
Dr. Mugisha expressed his sorrow over her untimely death, highlighting the significant loss to both the family and the Kisoro District community. He mentioned that burial arrangements would be discussed in a family meeting and noted the expectation that the government would assist with the burial program.
Nyirabashitsi’s father, Dr. Philemon Mateke, a former state minister, described her passing as a substantial blow to the family. Various community leaders including Kisoro municipality deputy mayor Augustine Mbonigaba and district council speaker Amos Hakizimana, praised Nyirabashitsi’s contributions as an exemplary legislator who was dedicated to her constituents. They stressed her commitment to development, unity, and empowerment particularly of women and youths.
Born on July 15, 1974, in Kisoro District, Nyirabashitsi received her education from local schools and universities, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master’s degree in Public Health, among other qualifications. She was actively involved in family businesses and founded the Nyirabashitsi Foundation to support children’s education.
She was the chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Metropolitan International University and Makerere Metropolitan Management Institute, Kampala.
Her political career began as the Assistant Town Clerk for Kisoro before successfully running for Woman Member of Parliament in 2021. Initially serving as Minister of State for Gender, Labour and Social Development, she was later appointed as Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs earlier this year amid a cabinet reshuffle by President Museveni. The community has expressed deep sorrow at her passing, recognizing her as a pivotal figure in local governance and development.
