Veteran Ugandan Diplomat Santa Laker-Kinyera Dies at 60
KAMPALA, Uganda (AP) – Uganda is in mourning following the death of Ambassador Santa Mary Laker-Kinyera, a highly respected diplomat who dedicated over three decades to advancing the nation’s foreign policy. She passed away Tuesday at Mulago Specialized National Referral Hospital after an illness, according to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She was 60 years old.
Laker-Kinyera most recently served as Deputy High Commissioner to Rwanda, a crucial role in strengthening diplomatic ties between the two East African nations. Her passing leaves a significant void in Uganda’s diplomatic corps.
“She advanced Uganda’s foreign policy with distinction and commitment for over three decades,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, adding that her contributions to diplomacy would be “remembered with deep respect.”
Born in 1966, Laker-Kinyera joined the Foreign Affairs Ministry in 1994, steadily rising through the ranks. Her expertise spanned bilateral and regional affairs, peace and security, and economic integration. She was a pioneer, serving as the first Chargé d’Affaires at Uganda’s Embassy in Ankara, Türkiye, helping to establish the mission in 2011.
Throughout her career, she represented Uganda on key international platforms including the United Nations, the East African Community, the African Union, and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development. From 2009 to 2011, she served as Private Secretary to President Yoweri Museveni for diplomatic affairs, also heading the Diplomatic Affairs Department at State House.
Colleagues and members of the diplomatic community have described Laker-Kinyera as a professional, principled, and dedicated public servant. Many also remember her as a mentor who guided younger officers within the Foreign Service.
Funeral arrangements have been announced: a service will be held at Our Lady of Africa Church on Thursday, March 12, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, followed by a vigil at her residence. She will then be laid to rest on Saturday, March 14, in Lacor–Akurukwe, Amuru District, following a procession from Kampala.