The late Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi, Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs, presides over a recent graduation ceremony at Metropolitan International University, the institution she founded.
KAMPALA, UGANDA – The Metropolitan International University (MIU) community is in mourning following the untimely passing of its founder, Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi, who also served as State Minister for Defense and Veteran Affairs.
“The entire Metropolitan International University (MIU) community is deeply saddened by the untimely passing of our esteemed founder, Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi,” the university said in a statement. “Her death marks a great loss to the education sector, the nation, and everyone who knew her for her dedication, vision, and remarkable service.”
Mateke founded MIU with the goal of providing accessible, inclusive, and transformative education to young people across Uganda and beyond. “She wanted to empower thousands of students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-evolving global economy,” the statement added.
As State Minister for Defense and Veteran Affairs, Mateke demonstrated strong leadership and dedication to the welfare of Uganda’s military and veteran communities. “Her efforts to improve the welfare of soldiers and veterans will remain a lasting part of her legacy,” the university said.
MIU has pledged to uphold Mateke’s vision and mission, nurturing innovation, excellence, and leadership. “We will continue to uphold her vision and mission, and ensure that her legacy lives on,” the university said. “Her life serves as an inspiration to us all, and her contributions to the education and defense sectors will be remembered for generations.”
Meanwhile, ths Parliament of Uganda has announced the funeral program for the late Minister who passed away at the age of 57.
According to Speaker Anita Among, the program was drawn up after consultations with the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, the family, the national organizing committee, and other stakeholders. “We have planned a series of activities to honor the late minister’s life and legacy,” Speaker Among said.
The funeral program includes a series of activities leading up to the burial date. On Monday, September 9, the body will arrive at her home in Nsangi, Wakiso District, at 3 pm, followed by a church service at 5 pm. The service will be led by the Bishop of Kampala Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Samuel Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu.
On Tuesday, September 10, a church service will be held at All Saints Cathedral, Kampala, at 8 am, before a special sitting at Parliament at noon. The special sitting will be attended by Members of Parliament, government officials, and dignitaries.
On Wednesday, September 11, the body will depart for Nyakabingo in Kisoro District at 9 am, where a council session, church service, and overnight vigil will take place.
The council session will be attended by local leaders and officials.
The late minister will be laid to rest on Thursday, September 12, at her ancestral home in Nyakabingo, Kisoro District, at 2 pm.
The burial will be attended by President Yoweri Museveni, government officials, Members of Parliament, and other dignitaries.
Mateke Nyirabashitsi was appointed Minister of State for Defence in a March 2024 cabinet reshuffle, replacing her previous role as State Minister for Children and Youth Affairs. She was a dedicated public servant who served the nation with distinction.
