Kitgum to remember mama Irene Gleeson

By Isaac Baligema                    

Northern Uganda is in high spirits as it prepares the visitation of President Yoweri Museveni on July 18 for the annual Mama Irene charity walk and memorial service at Boma grounds in Kitgum town.

Irene Gleeson founded Irene Gleeson Foundation (IGF) in 1991 and through her organization; she used to provide free medication, education and food to thousands of orphans and ex-child soldiers in Kitgum town.

She passed away on July 2013 aged 68 after losing the battle to cancer.  At the time of her death, she had started four primary schools, one technical school, a radio station, a community church and a hospital.

Gleeson was posthumously honoured by the Ugandan Parliament and was among the recipients of medals at the 25th Heroes Day celebrations on June 9, 2014 for her outstanding contribution towards the children and community at large in northern Uganda. IGF executive director John Paul Kiffasi received the medal.

 “Mama Irene was a special gift to the children and people of northern Uganda as she helped many children reach their full potential by her generosity and selfless persona and because of that, we shall forever honour her. The people here are very excited about the President’s visit and everyone is looking forward to July 18,” said Kiffasi.

All the heads of departments in the organization are all former children who were picked on streets and raised by Gleeson; Kiffasi emphasized that left behind a strong management team that will take the organization to greater heights.

“We are determined to carry on Mama Irene’s vision and with support of government and our international friends who fund more than 90% of our activities; Mama Irene’s legacy will live on,” said Kiffasi.

According to Kiffasi, more than 20,000 people are expected to converge in Kitgum town on July 18 to celebrate Gleeson’s life.

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