A Life Dedicated to Ending FGM
Reproductive Health Uganda deeply mourns the passing of Hon. Jane Frances Kuka, a devoted educator, legislator, activist, and long-serving member of the RHU family. She passed away at Nakasero Hospital in Kampala after a period of illness.
Hon. Kuka’s life was defined by service, courage, and an unrelenting commitment to the advancement of sexual and reproductive health and rights, particularly in the fight against female genital mutilation -a harmful practice that she tirelessly sought to eliminate in Uganda.
Her Journey with RHU
Hon. Kuka’s relationship with RHU spanned nearly three decades, during which she contributed immensely to the growth and governance of the organisation:
- She joined RHU as a volunteer member in October 1990, bringing passion and a strong voice for community empowerment.
- In the mid to late 1990s, she served on the Branch Executive Committee of RHU’s Sebei Branch, where she helped to strengthen local advocacy and programming.
- From April 2007 to April 2010, she was a valued member of RHU’s Programme and Finance Committee, providing leadership and guidance in resource allocation and programme oversight.
- Her leadership extended nationally as a member of RHU’s National Executive Committee between April 2016 and April 2019, where she influenced policy direction and organisational growth.
Through these roles, she not only uplifted the Sebei region but also left a lasting imprint on RHU’s national agenda, reinforcing the principle that communities thrive when women and girls have full access to their rights.
A Life of Service and Leadership
Hon. Kuka began her professional journey as a primary three teacher in 1969, teaching music at Gamaa tui Primary School. Her dedication to education saw her rise to Principal of Kapchorwa Teachers’ College in 1988.
She later entered the political arena, contesting in the 1989 Parliamentary elections and the 1994 Constituent Assembly elections before being elected as Woman Member of Parliament for Kapchorwa in the Sixth Parliament (1996–2001). She also served as Resident District Commissioner and later as Minister of State for Gender and Culture, roles through which she championed gender equality and women’s empowerment at the national level.
Champion Against FGM
Perhaps her most enduring legacy lies in her fearless activism against female genital mutilation, a deeply rooted cultural practice in the Sebei region. Hon. Kuka broke barriers by speaking out against FGM at a time when it was taboo to do so, inspiring many women and men to challenge harmful traditions.
Her advocacy earned her national and international recognition:
- In 2012, she received The Distinguished Order of the Nile – Class 4, a civilian award honouring her activism against FGM.
- In 2013, she was awarded the Tumaini Lifetime Achievement Award for her lifelong commitment to ending FGM and advancing the rights of women and girls.
Her work contributed significantly to shifting mindsets, influencing policies, and empowering survivors -making her one of Uganda’s most formidable voices against FGM.
A Legacy in the SRHR Fraternity
Hon. Kuka’s dedication extended beyond her local community. She was a respected leader within the broader SRHR fraternity, inspiring advocates across Uganda and beyond. Her courage in addressing taboo issues like FGM created pathways for more open dialogue, stronger advocacy, and greater protection for vulnerable groups.
Her contribution to RHU and the wider SRHR movement reflects her strong belief in a just society where women and girls can live free from violence, access quality health services, and exercise their rights without fear.
Farewell to a Visionary Leader
As RHU, we celebrate Hon. Jane Frances Kuka’s extraordinary life and honour her immense contribution to advancing reproductive health and rights. Her legacy will continue to guide us as we work to eliminate harmful practices and ensure that every individual, especially women and young people, can realise their full potential.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, the people of Kapchorwa, and the SRHR movement at large.
Rest in Power, Hon. Jane Frances Kuka. Your fight lives on.
