The legal fraternity and the nation at large are mourning the loss of one of Uganda’s most distinguished jurists and public servants, Justice (Rtd.) Professor George Wilson Kanyeihamba, who passed away recently.
A man of sharp intellect, uncompromising principles, and deep dedication to the rule of law, Kanyeihamba leaves behind a legacy that spans academia, public service, and the judiciary.
Born on August 11, 1939, in Kinaba, Kinkizi District in the Kigezi Region, he was the last-born of eleven children to Zakaliya Bafwokworora and Kyenda Malyamu Kyakundwa.
His humble beginnings did not deter him from rising to become one of the most respected legal minds in the country.
A Distinguished Legal and Academic Career
Kanyeihamba’s academic journey took him from Hamurwa Church School to Busoga College Mwiri, and eventually overseas. He earned his Bachelor of Laws from Portsmouth University and went on to receive a PhD in Law from the University of Warwick in the 1970s — a rare feat at the time.
His academic excellence opened doors for him to lecture at several esteemed institutions, including Portsmouth College (now the University of Portsmouth), Lanchester Polytechnic (now Coventry University), and the University of Wales in Cardiff.
He also taught law in Uganda at the Nsamizi Law School in Entebbe, the precursor to the Law Development Centre.
Architect of the Constitution and Supreme Court Judge
Justice Kanyeihamba was not just a scholar — he was a nation builder. He played a central role as Chair of the Legal Committee of the Constituent Assembly, which drafted the 1995 Constitution of Uganda, a cornerstone of the country’s governance to this day.
In 1997, he was appointed to the Supreme Court of Uganda, where he served with distinction until his retirement in November 2009. He was known for his independence, particularly in landmark rulings that emphasized constitutionalism and human rights.
Before his appointment to the bench, Kanyeihamba served the Ugandan government in various capacities, including as Minister of Commerce, Minister of Justice, and Attorney-General. He was also once a Member of Parliament, reflecting his wide-ranging contributions to public life.
Recognitions and Service Beyond the Courtroom
His contributions did not go unnoticed. In 2008, the University of Warwick awarded him an honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) in recognition of his lifelong commitment to justice and education.
Justice Kanyeihamba served as Chancellor of Kampala International University and Kabale University. He also held numerous leadership positions, including:
- Chairman, Committee on Judges’ Terms and Conditions of Service
- Legal Adviser to the President of Uganda on Human Rights and International Affairs
- Chairman, Board of Trustees of Kabale University
- Member, Foundation for Human Rights Initiative
- Chair, International Commission of Jurists Advisory Panel of Eminent Commonwealth Judicial Experts
A prolific author, he wrote and co-authored several journal articles and books that have influenced legal thought in Uganda and beyond.
A Family Man
Despite his towering public persona, George Kanyeihamba remained a devoted family man. He is survived by his wife, Susan Kanyeihamba, their children, Sarah, Joel, and Ruth, and an adopted daughter, Betty.
May his legacy endure, and may he rest in eternal peace!
