By Cathy Mirembe
On February 23,2025, Uganda’s education community mourned the loss of Elizabeth Gabona a trailblazing icon who dedicated her life to shaping the country’s education sector. Her demise marked the end of an era but her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
As a renowned educator, Gabona left an indelible mark on Uganda’s education landscape. Her impressive career spanned several decades during which she held various leadership positions including Deputy Chairperson for Higher Education. Her expertise, guidance and mentorship earned her widespread respect and admiration from colleagues, students and the broader education community.
President Yoweri Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni paid glowing tribute to Gabona acknowledging her tireless contributions to Uganda’s education sector. The Vice President, Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, represented President Museveni at the official funeral service which took place on March 1,2025. The ceremony was a testament to Gabona’s impact on the nation, as friends, family and dignitaries gathered to celebrate her life and legacy.
Gabona’s commitment to education was more than a profession – it was a calling. She was driven by a passion to empower young minds to foster a culture of excellence and to promote inclusive and equitable education. Her leadership and vision helped shape policies, programs and institutions that have transformed Uganda’s education sector.
As Gabona was laid to rest in Kolonyi, Mbale district the nation reflected on her remarkable journey and the lessons she left behind. Her legacy servers as a reminder that education is the cornerstone of development and that dedicated leaders like Gabona are essential to building a brighter future.
In the words of Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, Gabona was a “moving encyclopedia on education matters.” Her passing leaves a void but her impact will continue to resonate through the countless lives she touched and the institutions she helped shape. As Uganda mourn the loss of this education icon, we also celebrate her life, legacy and the enduring impact she had on the country’s education sector.
