Uganda is mourning the passing of former Cabinet Minister, celebrated author, and women’s rights advocate Mary Busingye Karooro Okurut.
The news was announced by Member of Parliament Margaret Muhanga, who described Okurut as her “bosom buddy,” literature teacher, mentor, and “world.”
BIOGRAPHY
Mary Karooro Okurut was born on 8 December 1954 in Bushenyi District and died on 11th, August,2025 at the age of 71.
Mary Karooro Okurut pursued her education at Bweranyangi Primary and Secondary Schools and Trinity College Nabbingo, later graduating from Makerere University with a Bachelor’s degree in Literature in 1977, a Master’s degree in Literature in 1981, and a Diploma in Education in 1982.
She began her professional career as a lecturer in the Department of Literature at Makerere University, a position she held from 1981 to 1993.
Her expertise and eloquence later led her into government service, where she served as Press Secretary to the Vice President (1994–1996), Commissioner at the Education Service Commission (1996–1999), and Press Secretary to the President (1999–2004).
In 2004, Okurut entered elective politics, becoming the Woman Member of Parliament for Bushenyi District under the National Resistance Movement.
She later served as Minister of Gender and Social Issues (2012–2015), Minister for National Security (March–June 2015), and Minister for General Duties in the Office of the Prime Minister from June 2016. In 2021, she was appointed Senior Presidential Advisor on Public Relations.
CHAMPION OF LITERATURE AND and WOMEN’S VOICES
Away from politics, Okurut was an accomplished writer and cultural advocate. She founded the Uganda Women Writers Association (FEMRITE), an organisation that has nurtured numerous Ugandan authors to international acclaim. Her own published works include The Invisible Weevil (1998),
The Official Wife, and the anthology A Woman’s Voice (1998), among others.
Through her teaching, mentorship, and advocacy, she played a pivotal role in promoting women’s voices in Uganda’s literary space, inspiring generations of writers and readers alike.
NATIONAL LOSS
Okurut’s death marks the end of an era in Uganda’s cultural and political life. She leaves behind a legacy of intellectual rigor, public service, and literary achievement.
Tributes continue to pour in from across the country, reflecting her impact as a teacher, mentor, leader, and friend.
Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.
