MP Nakimuli’s death leaves lasting void in Uganda’s volleyball community

KALANGALA - Before she became a legislator, Helen Nakimuli was already a force on the volleyball court, leading and shaping one of Uganda’s most resilient women’s clubs, COBAP Volleyball Club.

Even at the height of her political career as Woman Member of Parliament for Kalangala district, Nakimuli remained, first and foremost, a volleyball leader, serving as COBAP president, mentoring players and captaining teams with the same intensity she brought to public office.

Her death on April 19, 2026, following complications from surgery, has left a void most deeply felt within the club she helped build and sustain.

COBAP confirmed her passing in a statement, paying tribute to a leader whose influence extended far beyond administration.

“It is with profound sadness that I formally announce the passing of our President, Helen. She served this club with exceptional dedication and generosity, extending far beyond her leadership role. She leaves an enduring legacy and a significant void within the club.”

Nakimuli’s impact at COBAP was both structural and personal. At a time when volleyball in Uganda remained largely amateur, she helped steady and grow the club into a competitive side, maintaining its presence in elite-level competitions.

Her leadership was defined by proximity, not distance. Despite her national status, she regularly trained with teammates, often at Nkumba University, choosing drills and teamwork over titles.

Former deputy president Denis Wakambi credits her for transforming the club’s trajectory.

“I was your vice president at COBAP-Uganda Volleyball Club over 10 years ago, and we moved our club to the next level. May your soul rest in peace, and may the good Lord comfort the grieving family,” Wakambi said.

Away from club duties, Nakimuli carried her leadership onto the regional stage as captain of the Uganda Parliamentary Women’s Volleyball Team.

She led the side to victory at the 2024 East African Inter-Parliamentary Games in Mombasa, Kenya, where they defended their title.

On the court, she was known for her versatility, comfortably playing multiple positions and anchoring her team with experience, coordination and powerful attacking play.

Nakimuli’s daily routine reflected her dual commitment, with early morning training sessions followed by parliamentary duties, and a return to the court whenever time allowed.

Her final appearance in Parliament on April 15, 2026, reflected her continued push for sports development in Uganda.

“Government must prioritise sports infrastructure development and accountability. Facilities like Hoima City Stadium require transparency, proper planning and funding to truly benefit Ugandan athletes and communities nationwide,” she debated.

She consistently advocated for better structures in sport, including the creation of an independent Ministry of Sports to improve funding and athlete support.

While volleyball defined much of her identity, Nakimuli also used her platform to support communities in Kalangala, promoting youth involvement in sport and pushing for development initiatives.

She believed volleyball could transform lives, particularly in island districts where opportunities remain limited, and championed initiatives such as beach volleyball to expand access.