In 2021, Rebecca Kadaga, the former Speaker of Uganda's Parliament, faced one of the hardest times in her life.
Her daughter, Sheila Nicole Alitwala Kadaga, passed away at the young age of 18. Sheila’s death left Kadaga heartbroken, as she had just lost her only brother, Paul Kadaga, a few months earlier in December 2020.
Sheila was a bright and hopeful young woman, full of dreams. Having completed her A-levels at Muyenga High School in Kampala, she was looking forward to joining Makerere University to further her education.
But tragically, her life was cut short when she suddenly became ill with breathing problems.
Sheila was rushed to the International Hospital Kampala, where she was treated for a week. Unfortunately, despite all efforts, Sheila passed away on February 28, 2021.
In a statement shared with the public, Kadaga spoke of the pain and emptiness that followed her daughter's death.
"Losing Sheila was devastating. She was my daughter, my friend, and my support. To lose her so suddenly, just months after my brother’s death, left me feeling lost," Kadaga said, tears welling in her eyes.
The death of Sheila also took a toll on the family’s emotional well-being. Sheila was remembered not just for her intelligence but for her loving nature and hard work.
She was always there to support her family, making her loss even more painful for those who were close to her.
"Sheila was the light of our home. Her smile, her laughter, and her love will forever be missed," Kadaga added during the funeral service.
The funeral was held at the Kadaga family’s ancestral home in Kamuli District.
Friends, family, and respected leaders from across the country gathered to pay their respects and support Rebecca Kadaga in her time of grief.
The funeral was not only a chance to mourn Sheila’s passing but also a moment to reflect on the impact she had on the people who knew her.
"Sheila was not just a daughter to me; she was a beacon of hope for our family. Her loss is something that we will never fully recover from, but we are grateful for the time we had with her," Kadaga told the mourners.
The painful events of 2020 and 2021 have shaped Kadaga’s life in ways she never expected. Losing her brother and daughter in such a short time tested her strength.
Yet, despite the overwhelming sadness, Kadaga continues to honor her daughter's memory and legacy.
Sheila's memory lives on in the hearts of those who loved her. Her family cherishes the time they spent with her, and though her life was short, it was full of love, promise, and hope for the future.
Kadaga continues to hold on to the beautiful moments shared with her daughter, vowing to keep her memory alive.
“I may have lost Sheila, but I will carry her in my heart forever,” Kadaga concluded.
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