By Timothy Lukanga
Dokolo Woman Member Of Parliament Hon Cecilia Barbara Atim Ogwal is said to have succumbed to cancer in India according to close sources at the age of 77
Ogwal was born on June 12, 1946, in Dokolo District, Northern Uganda, and rose to prominence as a career woman, MP and business woman.
Her academic journey took her to the University of Nairobi, where she earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree in 1970. She also held a Certificate in Human Resources Management from the Uganda Management Institute as well as qualifications from Singapore and Australia.
Cecilia’s professional life unfolded with diverse experiences. She served as the Liaison Officer for Returning Ugandan Refugees at the Uganda Embassy in Kenya (1979-1980), after which she worked as Operations Manager at the Uganda Advisory Board of Trade (1980-1981). She also played a pivotal role as one of the founders of Housing Finance Bank in 1982 and later chaired the Uganda Development Bank from 1981 to 1986.
Cecilia became the Acting Secretary General of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) from 1985 to 1992. Her involvement in the Constituent Assembly in 1994 led to the drafting and promulgation of the 1995 Ugandan Constitution. A loyal member of the UPC, she transitioned to the Forum for Democratic Change party, winning the Women’s Representative seat for Dokolo District in 2011.
Her parliamentary contributions were substantial, evident through her role in the Committee of Physical Infrastructure, where she oversaw policy matters related to Lands, Housing, Urban development, Works and Transport, and Physical Planning. Additionally, she left her imprint on the budget committee, showcasing her dedication to shaping Uganda’s developmental trajectory.
In her personal life, Cecilia Ogwal was a loving wife to Lameck Ogwal and a mother of seven natural children alongside numerous adopted ones. Interestingly, the lady who came to be known as “The Iron Lady”, won the first “Miss Uganda” contest at the age of 23 in 1969, adding a touch of glamour to her multifaceted life.
Cecilia Ogwal will be remembered as a dedicated politician, businesswomen and champion for women’s rights. May Her Soul Rest In Eternal Peace.
