Helen Nakimuli, born on July 2, 1985, in Lukuba village, Kyamuswa sub-county in Kalangala District, was a prominent Ugandan politician and the elected Member of Parliament (MP) for Kalangala District. Raised by a Greek Orthodox priest, Christopher Walusimbi, and Maria Nalwanga Walusimbi, a former district councillor, Nakimuli had strong roots in both religious and community service. She was known for her advocacy for women’s rights, corruption reduction, and her leadership role within her community and the country.
Early Life and Education
Nakimuli’s educational journey began at Bukasa Primary School and Hormisdallen Primary School in Bweyogerere, Wakiso. She later attended Our Lady of Good Counsel in Gayaza for her Ordinary Level education. For her Advanced Level, Nakimuli attended Saint Augustine Secondary School in Wakiso, where she began developing her leadership skills, serving as the head girl of the school. After completing secondary school, she enrolled at Makerere University, where she continued her studies and political involvement.
Political Career
Nakimuli’s political journey began when she successfully contested and defeated Aidah Nabayiga to become the Member of Parliament for Kalangala District. She went on to be appointed Head of Communication and Anti-Corruption at the National Unity Platform (NUP), where she became a prominent figure in the political landscape. Her leadership skills and advocacy led her to become the Women’s Representative for Kalangala District in the 12th Parliament of Uganda.
Achievements and Advocacy
In her time as a parliamentarian, Nakimuli made significant contributions to the welfare of her constituency. She helped widows in Kalangala access legal services when others attempted to seize their late husbands’ property. She also contributed to the elderly population of Kalangala, providing them with much-needed relief such as food and soap. Nakimuli’s compassion extended to those affected by fires in the district, where she helped organize and distribute relief items to the victims.
She was also an advocate for the inclusion of island districts such as Buvuma and Namayingo in the government’s Emyooga fund, which supports local businesses and entrepreneurs.
Sports and Community Service
Nakimuli was not only involved in politics but also in sports, particularly volleyball. She had been playing the sport since 1998 and was the captain of the women’s volleyball team that participated in the East Africa Parliamentary Games in Arusha, Tanzania. Additionally, she was a member of the COBAP Volleyball Club.
Her dedication to community service extended beyond politics. She was known for her charity work, including assisting widows, supporting the elderly, and helping those whose homes were destroyed.
Recognition and Awards
In recognition of her exceptional service to both the Eastern Orthodox Church and her community, Nakimuli received an ecclesial medal from the Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria, Theodore II of Alexandria. The award was a testament to her commitment to humanity and her religious community.
Death
Tragically, Nakimuli passed away on April 18, 2026, following complications from an elective surgery. She was 40 years old. Her death was deeply mourned, and her body was transferred to Mulago National Referral Hospital for a post-mortem examination. Nakimuli’s passing marks a significant loss to her community, her political party, and Uganda as a whole.
Nakimuli’s legacy lives on as a champion of women’s rights, social justice, and community empowerment. Her efforts and contributions to her people will not be forgotten.
