As the news of the death of the trailblazing politician and revered legislator Rhoda Nakibuuka Nsibirwa Kalema popularly known as the “Mother of Parliament” at the age of 96 in Nairobi Hospital on Sunday spread across the country, tributes have started pouring in for one of Uganda’s most esteemed stateswomen from all walks of life.
A daughter to former Buganda Premier Martin Luther Nsibirwa, Rhoda is widely revered for championing women’s participation in Uganda’s Parliament at a time when female participation in politics was very rare.
The Buganda Kingdom Prime Minister Charles Peter Mayiga described her as being a true image of a prominent woman and a politician.
“The news of the passing of Ms Rhoda Kalema, daughter to Katikkiro Martin Luther Nsibirwa, has made us really sad! She has been portraying the true behaviors of a woman who is prominent as well as a politician.
We shall remember her for raising her children and taking care of the home ever since the murder of her husband William Kalema during the times of Idi Amin. She has been the light in house of Owek. Martin Luther Nsibirwa. I send condolences to her children and blood line. Rest In Peace Mother/Aunt/Grandmother. CPM” Premier Mayiga posted on his X.
Speaker of Parliament Anitah Among described the late as mother, mentor and trailblazer for women in leadership.
“Through her boldness and determination, she opened the doors of Parliament to women leaders, mentored many notable female leaders, and made tremendous contributions to our legislative process as a member of the Legislature and cabinet over the years” she posted.
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa described her as a woman of unique character and valour, down to earth and amiable.
“Hon. Rhoda fondly carried the title of “Mother of Parliament” because of her immense contribution to Uganda’s politics and the cause of women’s emancipation. She was active in politics as a fervent supporter of various political groups even before independence. However, her most instrumental role came after the fall of the Amin dictatorship” he posted.
Dr. Bireete Sarah the Executive Director Center for Constitutional Governance (CCG), said she will not only celebrate how Rhoda lived but also embrace the call she left behind to stand for justice, to serve with humility, and to never lose hope in the promise of Uganda.
“Maama Rhoda Kalema, you broke barriers for women in leadership and served your nation with unwavering integrity. Your legacy lives on in every Ugandan woman who dares to lead, in every voice that stands for justice, and in the hope of a nation you so dearly loved
Hon. Canon Rhoda Kalema, your race is run, your crown is won. Uganda is better because you lived. May your soul rest in eternal peace – your light will forever live on. #RestInPowerMaamaKalema” she posted.
Journalist Samson Kasumba described Rhoda Kalema’s death as a huge light which has gone off on earth.
“My first knowledge of these two names Rhoda Kalema and Joyce Mpanga was from my father who had some working relationship with the two giants now both gone. I was later to learn how much they were Trail Blazers who beat so many odds. To be where, and who they were, these women beat transcended both their pears and most men or their era. These women did not look for help to beat the odds, they just went after the odds and smashed them for themselves and other girl children. Lest we forget you Maama Rodha” he posted.
