By Yazid Yolisigira
Leaders in Iganga District have paid tribute to former Iganga District Woman Member of Parliament Olivia Kabaale Kwagala, describing her as a dedicated public servant whose contribution to the development of the district will be remembered.
The tributes were made during a requiem Mass at St Peter’s Church in Kasokoso Village, Iganga Municipality, where mourners gathered to pay their last respects to the former legislator.
Kwagala, 67, who represented Iganga District in Parliament from 2011 to 2016, died on Monday at Mulago National Referral Hospital, where she had reportedly been battling cancer for a long time.
Before the requiem service, her casket, accompanied by a brass band, was taken through the streets of Iganga town in a procession before being delivered to the church.
Iganga District LCV chairperson Shabiru Kalulu said Kwagala would be remembered for her contribution to the expansion of rural electricity coverage through lobbying for the rural electrification programme.
He cited Nawaningi, Nakalama and parts of Nakigo as some of the areas that benefited from her efforts.
“Electricity in Nawaningi, Nakalama and parts of Nakigo came as a result of Olivia’s tireless efforts,” Kalulu said.
He also credited the former legislator for lobbying for the rehabilitation of Iganga General Hospital, saying her interventions contributed to the development of the district.
Iganga Municipality Mayor Nassar Kongola said Kwagala also advocated for the construction of a modern market in Iganga, a project for which the Government is making plans.
He said her contribution to the municipality’s development would remain part of her legacy.
Presiding over the requiem Mass, Rev. Alfred Borya urged leaders to emulate the deceased by dedicating themselves to serving communities and leaving behind a legacy of good deeds.
Kwagala’s body is expected to be laid to rest today, at the family’s ancestral home in Bunyantole Village, Ibulanku Sub-county, Bugweri District, according to family members.
