Born: 1954 (Iganga District, Uganda)
Biography:
Specioza Kazibwe, also known as Specioza Naigaga Wandira Kazibwe, was born on July 1, 1954, in Iganga District, Uganda. She is a prominent figure in Ugandan politics and is recognized as the first female vice president in Africa. Dr. Specioza Kazibwe is not only a politician but also a surgeon, making her a highly accomplished and influential figure in Uganda.
Kazibwe’s educational journey began at Mount Saint Mary’s College Namagunga, a prestigious all-female boarding school affiliated with the Catholic Church. She excelled academically and went on to attend Makerere University School of Medicine in 1974. Kazibwe specialized in human medicine and graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree in 1979. She continued her studies at Makerere University Medical School, obtaining a Master of Medicine degree in General Surgery. Kazibwe’s pursuit of knowledge did not stop there; in 2009, she was awarded a Doctor of Science degree by Harvard School of Public Health, specifically in the Department of Population and International Health.
Kazibwe’s political career took off when she became the Chairperson of Chairpersons of Halls of Residence at Makerere University Kampala from 1975 to 1976. This position held great significance, as it was the equivalent of a University Guild President, which had been abolished by then President Idi Amin Dada. She also actively participated in the youth and women’s wings of the Ugandan Democratic Party.
In 1987, Kazibwe secured her first election victory as a village leader, running under the ticket of the National Resistance Movement (NRM). She later became the Women’s Representative for Kampala District and served as the Chairperson of the Advisory Committee for Museveni’s election campaign. Her dedication and leadership qualities propelled her further, as she was appointed as the Deputy Minister for Industry in 1989, serving in this position until 1991.
From 1991 to 1994, Kazibwe held the position of Minister for Gender and Community Development. During this time, she actively contributed to the drafting of Uganda’s new constitution as a member of the Constitution Assembly. In 1994, she was elected as the Member of Parliament for the Kigulu South constituency in Iganga District.
The pinnacle of Kazibwe’s political career came when she assumed the role of Uganda’s Vice President in 1994. She held this position for an impressive nine years until 2003. Simultaneously, she also served as the Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries. Her tenure as vice president marked a significant milestone, as she became the first woman in Africa to hold such a high-ranking position in a sovereign nation.
Kazibwe’s influence extended beyond Uganda’s borders. In 1998, she collaboratively founded the African Women Committee on Peace and Development (AWCPD) with the support of the Organization of African Unity and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. As the chairperson of this organization, Kazibwe played a pivotal role in advocating for women’s participation in peacekeeping and development processes throughout Africa.
Furthermore, Kazibwe’s dedication to improving the lives of her fellow citizens extended to her role as a surgeon. With her medical background, she actively contributed to healthcare initiatives and played a vital part in improving access to quality healthcare for all Ugandans.
In August 2013, Kazibwe’s commitment to public service was recognized at an international level when she was appointed as the United Nations Special Envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa by the Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon. This appointment further highlighted her influence and expertise in public health and her relentless efforts to combat the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
Specioza Kazibwe’s contributions to society, both as a politician and as a surgeon, have left an indelible mark on Uganda and the African continent. Her groundbreaking achievements as the first female vice president in Africa have paved the way for future generations of women in politics. Her commitment to gender equality, peacekeeping, and healthcare has solidified her as an influential figure in women’s history in Uganda and beyond.