By Spy Uganda
The Speaker and Chairman of the Pan African Pyramid (PAP), Andrew Irumba Katusabe, has paid a heartfelt tribute to fallen Kalangala Woman MP, Helen Nakimuli, who passed away on Sunday following an unsuccessful surgery at Alexandria specialized hospital near Mulago National Referral Hospital.
In an emotional message, Irumba described himself as “speechless” upon receiving news of Nakimuli’s death, hailing her as a pioneer member of PAP who joined the organization at its inception in 2014. He credited her as one of the strongest pillars behind the group’s humanitarian work, noting that her dedication left a lasting mark on communities across Uganda.
“The sad news of her demise struck me and paralyzed me. I finally accepted that God has decided to take His best,” he said.
Nakimuli, a member of the National Unity Platform, will be remembered for her compassion, particularly during PAP’s outreach missions. Irumba recalled a moving moment in Bidi Bidi Refugee Settlement, where she broke down in tears after witnessing the suffering of vulnerable girls, going on to comfort and support them with donations. Her deep empathy and hands-on approach defined her humanitarian efforts throughout her life.
Born on July 2, 1985, in Lukuba village, Kyamuswa Sub-county in Kalangala District, Nakimuli rose from humble beginnings to become a respected national leader. She was the daughter of Rev. Fr. Christopher Walusimbi, an Orthodox priest, and Maria Nalwanga Walusimbi, a former district councilor. Her education journey took her through Bukasa Primary School, Hormisdallen Primary School, Our Lady of Good Counsel Gayaza, St. Augustine Secondary School, and later Makerere University.
Her leadership journey began early as a head girl in secondary school, later transitioning into active politics where she was elected Woman Member of Parliament for Kalangala District. Beyond politics, Nakimuli was a celebrated sportswoman, excelling in volleyball, basketball, and netball. She captained Uganda’s women’s parliamentary volleyball team at the East African Parliamentary Games in Arusha and played for COBAP Volleyball Club.
A committed philanthropist, Nakimuli founded the Nakimuli Foundation, which supported widows in Kalangala with legal assistance to protect their late husbands’ property. She also championed relief efforts for the elderly and vulnerable, and advocated for inclusive government programs such as Emyooga to benefit island districts like Buvuma and Namayingo.
In recognition of her service, she was awarded an ecclesiastical medal by Theodore II of Alexandria for her outstanding contribution to the Orthodox Church, Uganda, and humanity.
As tributes continue to pour in, colleagues, constituents, and humanitarian partners remember Nakimuli as a compassionate leader, a dedicated Pan-Africanist, and a servant of the people whose legacy will endure.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be communicated in due course.
