Kalangala, Uganda: The sudden death of Kalangala Woman Member of Parliament Helen Nakimuli has left Uganda in shock, cutting short the life of a vibrant legislator, sportswoman, and community advocate whose journey from island roots to national leadership inspired many.
Nakimuli died on Sunday, April 18, 2026, at a health facility in Kampala following an unsuccessful surgical procedure, moments after she had personally driven herself to hospital, believing the operation was minor.
Early Life and Rise to Leadership
Born on July 2, 1985, in Lukuba village, Kyamuswa Sub-county in Kalangala District, Nakimuli grew up in a family deeply rooted in faith and leadership. Her father, Christopher Walusimbi, was a Greek Orthodox priest, while her mother, Maria Nalwanga Walusimbi, served as a district councillor.
Her early education took her through Bukasa Primary School and Hormisdallen Primary School, before joining Our Lady of Good Counsel Gayaza for O-Level and St Augustine Secondary School for A-Level, where she emerged as head girl—an early sign of her leadership potential.
She later joined Makerere University, laying the foundation for her career in public service.
Before politics, Nakimuli built a strong reputation as a volleyball player, beginning her sporting journey in 1998. She rose to become a key figure in the sport, captaining teams and representing Uganda in regional competitions, including the East Africa Parliamentary Games in Arusha, Tanzania.
Her discipline and teamwork on the court mirrored her approach to leadership.
Nakimuli later transitioned into politics, winning the Kalangala Woman MP seat and serving in the 12th Parliament under the National Unity Platform (NUP).
She also served as Head of Communication and Anti-Corruption within her party, becoming a vocal figure in governance and accountability debates.
Champion for the Vulnerable
Beyond Parliament, Nakimuli was widely recognized for her grassroots interventions in Kalangala. She supported widows facing property grabbing, helped vulnerable families access legal assistance, and provided relief to communities affected by disasters such as fires.
Her advocacy extended to pushing for inclusion of island districts like Buvuma and Namayingo in government poverty alleviation programmes such as Emyooga.
Her service earned her international recognition, including an ecclesial medal awarded by the Orthodox Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria and All Africa, Theodore II, for her contribution to humanity and the church.
Final Moments Before Death
On the day of her death, Nakimuli remained actively engaged in her parliamentary duties.
Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi revealed that he had spoken to her earlier that morning regarding an upcoming meeting of opposition MPs.
She was reportedly in high spirits and personally drove herself to hospital for what she described as a minor procedure. Tragically, she did not make it out of theatre.
Her body was later transferred to Mulago National Referral Hospital for postmortem examination.
A Legacy Cut Short
Nakimuli’s death has left a void in Parliament and among her constituents in Kalangala, where she was fondly regarded as “the pearl of Kalangala.”
Colleagues remember her as a dedicated, approachable, and passionate leader who balanced national duties with grassroots engagement.
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