Uganda is grieving the loss of Mary Karooro Okurut, a celebrated author, former Cabinet Minister, and advocate for women’s empowerment, who passed away on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the age of 70.
Her death marks the end of an era for both Uganda’s political and literary circles, where she was regarded as a trailblazer and mentor to many.
State Minister for Primary Health Care, Margaret Muhanga, confirmed the news in a deeply emotional post on social media.
“With so much pain, grief & sorrow, I announce the death of my ‘bosom buddy’ Mary Karooro Okurut. My literature teacher, my mentor, my very close buddy, my world, my all. So painful to imagine. This is a sting I’ll never forget. May the angels receive her in glory,” Muhanga wrote.
The Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon Anita Among, also paid tribute in a heartfelt message on Monday evening.
“On a sad note, I have received the painful news of the passing of the Honourable Mary Karoro Okurut. She served in various Cabinet portfolios, including Labour, General Duties, Security, Information, and National Guidance. Additionally, she was a long-serving Member of Parliament for Bushenyi District,” Among said.
“Before her political career, she made significant contributions to academia in Literature and Communications, where her legacy continues to shine brightly. On behalf of @Parliament\_Ug and myself, I extend sincere condolences to His Excellency @KagutaMuseveni, her family, relatives, friends, and everyone whose life she touched. May the Lord grant her humble soul eternal rest,” the Speaker added.
Born on December 8, 1954, in Bushenyi District, Karooro earned a BA, MA, and Diploma in Education from Makerere University.
She began her career as a literature lecturer at Makerere University, shaping minds and inspiring a generation of students before stepping into public service in the 1990s.
Her political journey saw her hold key Cabinet positions, including Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, and Minister for General Duties in the Office of the Prime Minister.
She was also a long-standing Member of Parliament for Bushenyi District, remembered for her dedication to her constituents and her commitment to national service.
In literature, Karooro left an indelible mark as the founder of the Uganda Women Writers Association (FEMRITE), a pioneering platform that amplified the voices of Ugandan female authors.
Her works, such as The Invisible Weevil, The Official Wife, and the anthology A Woman’s Voice, explored themes of identity, culture, and social justice.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Karooro was known for her devotion to her family.
She was married to the late politician Stanislaus Okurut until his death in 2014 and was a loving mother and grandmother who balanced public duties with mentorship and family life.
The family has not yet released details on the cause of death.
Funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.
