In loving memory of H.E Esther Nakajjigo “Essie” (1995-2020)
Essie’s journey began in the ‘red-light’ slum of Kabalagala in Kampala, East Africa, a place where survival on less than a dollar a day was a harsh reality. Surrounded by the stark contrast of death being more familiar than a doctor, Essie witnessed the plight of young girls forced to trade their bodies for a living at the tender age of 13. This stark reality fueled her determination to change the status quo.
At just 17, Essie selflessly donated her university tuition to establish a non-profit health facility to aid child mothers in the community. While her peers were engrossed in the latest movies, Essie was on a mission to save another teenage mother in need. Her dedication and hard work earned her recognition as a United States Department of State Young African Leader, a European Union Young Leader, a Young Leader for the African Union, a Luff Peace Prize Fellow of the Watson Institute, and a Commonwealth Peace Award Winner.
Essie was a selfless star who lived for others, forgetting about herself in the process. Tragically, her life was cut short in a horrific incident while exiting the Arches National Park in Utah, USA, in 2020. She was not only Uganda’s sweetheart but also recognized as the world’s princess of Mother Nature. A memorial monument adorned with 1995 stones reflecting her birth year stands in Uganda, visited by hundreds yearly. Essie was only 25.
Our dedicated team, led by Ambassador Prof. Badru Dungu Kateregga, founder and Vice Chancellor of Kampala University, continues Essie’s mission. With individuals like Roberta Lynn Luff as Finance Secretary, Hajati Fatuma Namugambe as Secretary General, Wilson Jaga as Chief of Party, Mayega Henry as Specialist Visual Arts, Bulya Desire as Head of Communications, and H.E Suzan Nabuuma overseeing Uganda’s Ambassador for Women and Girls, our collective goal is to carry forward Essie’s legacy.
As we strive to amplify Essie’s vision, we invite you to support us by contributing. The funds raised will enable us to ensure that those who dedicate their all to helping others in the United States and Uganda receive the support they need to shine brighter.
Join us in honoring Essie’s legacy and positively impacting the lives of thousands of those who live for others and forget about themselves. Together, we can continue the journey she started and create lasting change.
