Gertrude Nakyembe Lwanga Memorial Humanitarian Prize Launched

In loving memory of Gertrude Nakyembe Lwanga, a woman whose profound impact continues to resonate in the hearts of those she touched, the Gertrude Nakyembe Lwanga Memorial Humanitarian Prize has been unvieled.

This annual award serves as a poignant tribute to her legacy, recognizing and honoring the remarkable women who embody the same spirit of compassion, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to humanity that defined Gertrude's life.

The Gertrude Nakyembe Lwanga Memorial Humanitarian Prize  is a yearly recognition bestowed upon the female humanitarian of the year, a woman whose actions mirror the extraordinary qualities that defi ned Gertrude's life.

Candidates for the award will be evaluated based on their:

1. Commitment to selfl ess service and alleviating the plight of the disadvantaged.

2. Unwavering dedication to community well-being and empowerment.

3. Demonstrated courage, resilience and a compassionate heart.

4. Positive impact on the lives of others, reflecting Gertrude's ethos of unconditional love.

Leading up to the event, several legacy activities will be conducted and they include:

1. Charitable initiatives: In conjunction with the award, there will be ongoing charitable efforts aligned with causes Gertrude held ensuring her legacy lives on through impactful projects .

2. Community Engagement: Encouraging community involvement and outreach programs to foster the same sense of unity and love Gertrude championed. The Gertrude Nakyembe Lwanga Memorial Humanitarian Prize stands as a testament to a life well-lived and a commitment to perpetuating Gertrude's legacy of love, kindness, and service to others, and to motivate female humanitarians out there. 

Who is Gertrude?

Born on August 18, 1949, Gertrude Nakyembe Lwanga lived a life defined by resilience, principle, and an unwavering commitment to her principles. A stenographer with the National Electricity Board, Gertrude's career was marked by her candor and determination, earning her respect from colleagues and superiors alike.

Despite her relatively young age, her straightforward approach led many, including those much older to seek her wise counsel. Gertrude got married on December 12, 1981. Family held a paramount place in Gertrude's heart. A devoted mother, she raised five children (four boys and one girl) instilling in them the values of perseverance and compassion. Her dreams of a large family were curtailed by a rare neurological disorder that gradually paralyzed her limbs.

Undeterred by this health challenge, Gertrude's strength of mind only grew, and her ability to provide counsel expanded with each passing year. Gertrude embodied a life of unwavering faith, living as a true Christian with a heart dedicated to prayer. Her passion extended beyond personal devotion, reaching out to the disadvantaged, particularly the orphans and widows. Gertrude's compassion knew no bounds as she tirelessly worked to uplift those in need.

Her impeccable character, marked by integrity and kindness, left an enduring impact on all who crossed her path. Generosity was woven into the fabric of her being, as she selflessly gave to others, demonstrating a spirit of love and care that defined her existence. Single-minded and resolute, Gertrude faced adversities head-on. Even when her health began to decline, she remained steadfast in pursuing her goals. Her determination to overcome obstacles became a hallmark of her character, inspiring all who knew her.

Tragically, Gertrude's journey came to an end on June 21, 2021, as she succumbed to the ravages of COVID-19 at UMC Victoria Hospital in Kampala, Uganda. Her departure left a void, but her legacy endures in the lives she touched and the wisdom she shared

In celebrating Gertrude's life, we remember a woman of strength, kindness, and indomitable spirit, a beacon whose influence will forever resonate in the hearts of those who were privileged to know her. In honor of Gertrude Nakyembe Lwanga's purposeful life, her legacy is extended through the heartfelt initiative of Vianey Sserubambula and Miria Blenda Nakkazi(her daughter), inspired by Gertrude's unwavering commitment to others, they worked tirelessly to bring a dream to life.

The Gertrude Nakyembe Lwanga Memorial Humanitarian Prize, valued at $100 stands as a testament to the profound impact of a life well-lived. As an embodiment of Gertrude's spirit, the prize is more than a monetary acknowledgment; it represents a commitment to recognizing and honoring women who, like Gertrude, dedicate themselves to selfl ess service and compassion. What makes this initiative even more remarkable is its promise for growth. Mirroring Gertrude's enduring strength, the prize will increase each year, ensuring that the impact of this tribute expands, just as Gertrude's counsel did with each passing year of her remarkable life.

This initiative, born from friendship and fueled by purpose, serves as a beacon of inspiration for others to follow in the footsteps of a woman who left an indelible mark of love, resilience and service.