The late Kalangala Woman MP, Helen Nakimuli, leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, service, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of island communities.
Her journey from a modest upbringing on Bukasa Island to the national political stage reflects a life shaped by determination and public duty.
Born on July 2, 1985, in Lukuba village on Bukasa Island, Nakimuli was raised in a family grounded in faith and discipline.
Her father, Rev. Fr. Christopher Walusimbi, and her mother, Maria Nalwanga, played a key role in instilling values that would later define her leadership style.
Growing up in Kalangala’s remote island setting, she experienced firsthand the challenges faced by underserved communities, an exposure that would later influence her political priorities.
Nakimuli began her education at Bukasa Primary School before transferring to Hormisdallen Primary School, where she completed her primary studies.
She proceeded to Our Lady of Good Counsel Gayaza for her O-Level education and later joined St Augustine Secondary School in Wakiso for A-Level.
Her academic journey culminated at Makerere University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and Social Administration.
Before venturing into politics, Nakimuli served as a Community Development Officer in Kalangala District. In this role, she worked closely with local communities, focusing on social welfare and grassroots development.
Her experience in public service provided her with a practical understanding of the challenges affecting island residents, including limited access to healthcare, poor transport systems, and inadequate education infrastructure.
Her transition into politics came in 2021 when she was elected as the Kalangala District Woman Member of Parliament under the National Unity Platform (NUP).
During her tenure, Nakimuli quickly established herself as a vocal advocate for marginalized communities.
She consistently pushed for improved ferry services, better health facilities, and increased government attention to island districts.
In January 2026, she secured re-election, a sign of growing public confidence in her leadership. Colleagues in Parliament described her as a firm but approachable leader who spoke with clarity on issues affecting her constituents.
Nakimuli passed away on April 19, 2026, in Kampala following complications related to surgery. She was 40 years old.
Her death has left a significant gap in Kalangala’s leadership, with many remembering her as a rising political figure whose impact was only beginning to be felt at the national level.