President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has officially approved a state burial for the late Geraldine Namirembe Bitamazire, a former Minister of Education and Sports, in recognition of her extensive service to Uganda’s education sector and the nation.
The announcement was made by Uganda’s Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babirye Babalanda, who said the National Organising Committee is working with Bitamazire’s family to ensure a fitting farewell. An official burial in Uganda means that the government will cover all funeral and burial expenses.
Bitamazire, who died on January 14, 2026, at the age of 84, served in multiple leadership roles throughout her career, including as Minister of Education and Sports and as Woman Member of Parliament for Mpigi District. She is widely credited with championing Universal Primary Education (UPE) and contributing to significant reforms in teacher training, curriculum review, and expanded school infrastructure.
President Museveni’s decision to grant an official burial honors her long and distinguished public service, particularly her impact on expanding access to education and strengthening Uganda’s human capital development.
The burial took place in her ancestral home in Butambala District, where senior government officials and community leaders paid tribute to her legacy.
