Several notable individuals bid farewell in 2023, leaving behind legacies that impacted various spheres of society. Here’s a tribute to some of the prominent personalities we lost during the year.
1. Keith Muhakanizi: Date of Death: April 13
A revered economic guru, former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance and Secretary to the Treasury, Keith Muhakanizi, passed away in a Milan hospital after battling a prolonged illness. His contributions to Uganda’s post-1986 economic policies were widely acknowledged.
2. Charles Okello Engola: Date of Death: May 2
Former Oyam North legislator and State minister for Labour, Charles Engola, met an untimely end when shot by his own bodyguard, Pte Wilson Sabiiti. The shocking incident sparked concerns about the safety of government officials, with investigations ongoing.
3. Apollo Nyegamehe (Aponye): Date of Death: July 6
A prominent businessman and Rukiga District chairperson, Apollo Nyegamehe, known as Aponye, lost his life in a car accident in Ntungamo District. His significant contributions to business and community development left a lasting impact.
4. Archbishop Paul Bakyenga: Date of Death: July 18
Former Archbishop of Mbarara, Paul Bakyenga, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of service to the church and society. Known for his commitment to social justice, education, and spirituality, Archbishop Bakyenga’s influence extended beyond religious boundaries.
5. Dr Aggrey Kiyingi: Date of Death: September 30
Ugandan cardiologist Dr Aggrey Kiyingi, who had lived in Australia, breathed his last. Despite his medical contributions, he faced controversies, including accusations related to the murder of his wife and funding rebels. His death marked the end of a complex chapter.
6. Evelyn Nakabira (Evelyn Lagu): Date of Death: September 18
Renowned artist Evelyn Nakabira, popularly known as Evelyn Lagu, succumbed to kidney disease after a battle spanning several years. Her attempt at a kidney transplant in Turkey was declined, highlighting the challenges faced by those battling serious health issues.
7. Hussein Kyanjo: Date of Death: July 22
Former MP of Makindye West, Hussein Kyanjo, passed away after a nearly 10-year-long illness related to Dystonia, a condition causing involuntary muscle contractions. Kyanjo’s contributions to politics and his health struggles were notable throughout his public life.
8. Kato Lubwama: Date of Death: June 7
Renowned comedian and former Rubaga South Member of Parliament, Kato Lubwama, left a void in Uganda’s entertainment landscape. His contributions to theater and radio, along with his involvement in political discourse, were part of his multifaceted career.
9. Sheikh Ismail bin Sulaiman Nkata:
A respected Muslim cleric, Sheikh Ismail bin Sulaiman Nkata, passed away at Nsambya hospital. Known for his extensive preaching and interpretation of the Holy Quran, Sheikh Nkata left a lasting impact on the Muslim community.
10. Muhammad Tezikuba Kisambira: Date of Death: August 3
Uganda’s ambassador to Iran, Muhammad Tezikuba Kisambira, passed away in Tehran. His diplomatic service and prior role as a Muslim scholar contributed to Uganda’s representation abroad.
11. Stuart Mutebi Kiwanuka: Date of Death: May 21
Legendary sports commentator Stuart Mutebi Kiwanuka succumbed to a prolonged battle with stroke. His contributions to sports broadcasting earned him recognition as one of Uganda’s greatest sports presenters.
12. Twaha Agarile: Date of Death: December 8
West Nile businessman Twaha Agarile, proprietor of Nile Star Bus Company, breathed his last at Madipol Hospital in Istanbul, Turkey.
13. Henry Katanga: Date of Death: November 1
Prominent businessman and Ankole Prince, Henry Katanga, was tragically shot dead inside his bedroom, sparking controversies around the circumstances of his death.
14. Charles Angiro Gutomoi: Date of Death: July 8
Former Erute legislator Charles Angiro Gutomoi died in a motor accident near Olwio, adding to the tragedies surrounding his life.
15. Joyce Rovincer Mpanga: Date of Death: November 18
A revered educationist, former MP, and minister, Joyce Rovincer Mpanga, left behind a legacy of contributions to women’s emancipation and education.
16. Ibrahim Tusubira (Isma Olaxes): Date of Death: May 6
Controversial vlogger Ibrahim Tusubira, known as Isma Olaxes, was shot dead at his home in Kyanja, Kampala, adding a layer of mystery to his already contentious public persona.
