Uganda Mourns the Loss of Former Supreme Court Justice Prof George Kanyeihamba at 84

Uganda is mourning the loss of Professor George Wilson Kanyeihamba, a distinguished former Supreme Court Justice and one of the country's most influential legal minds, who passed away at the age of 84. Justice Kanyeihamba served on Uganda's highest court from 1997 until his retirement in November 2009, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's judicial system.

Born on August 11, 1939, in Kinaba, Kinkizi District, Kanyeihamba was a pivotal figure in shaping Uganda's legal framework. He chaired the Legal Committee of the Constituent Assembly that drafted the 1995 Constitution, a document that remains foundational to the country's governance. His expertise in constitutional law earned him widespread respect and recognition.

Beyond his judicial role, Kanyeihamba held several prominent government positions, including Minister of Commerce, Minister of Justice, and Attorney General. He also served as a Member of Parliament and was the Legal Adviser to the President on Human Rights and International Affairs. His commitment to public service was matched by his academic achievements, including a PhD in Law from the University of Warwick and an honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) from the same institution in 2008.

Educated at Busoga College Mwiri and Kigezi High School, Kanyeihamba pursued higher education at Portsmouth University, where he earned his Bachelor of Laws degree. He later became a respected lecturer, teaching at institutions such as the University of Portsmouth, Coventry University, the University of Wales in Cardiff, and the Law Development Centre in Entebbe. His scholarly contributions included numerous books and articles on constitutional and human rights law.

Kanyeihamba also served as Chancellor of both Kampala International University and Kabale University. His involvement in civil society and international legal organizations was notable, including his role as Chair of the International Commission of Jurists Advisory Panel of Eminent Commonwealth Judicial Experts and membership in the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative.

He is survived by his wife, Susan Kanyeihamba, and their children Sarah, Joel, and Ruth, as well as an adopted daughter, Betty. As Uganda reflects on his life, Justice Kanyeihamba's legacy as a scholar, judge, and advocate for human rights will continue to inspire future generations.