Uganda’s First Woman Cadet Police Officer, SSP (Rtd) Jane Nancy Nakabiri, Dies at Home in Makindye

Kampala—Uganda is mourning the passing of Senior Superintendent of Police (Retired) Jane Nancy Nakabiri, the nation’s first woman cadet police officer, who died peacefully at her home in Makindye, family sources confirmed.

Nakabiri made history in 1963 when she outperformed 19 other highly qualified women to become the first female cadet officer at Naguru Police Training College. She recounted in a 2022 interview, “Police advertised for the training of a female cadet officer… I applied and sat for the interview together with 19 other highly qualified ladies. I was admitted for the training at Naguru Police Training College and passed out as an Assistant Superintendent of Police.”

Her pioneering spirit took her to Loitokitok in Kilimanjaro, Kenya, and later to the United Kingdom for further training, including attachments with the Metropolitan Police and Yorkshire City Police.

Born in Takajunge, Salaama Parish, Makindye Division, Nakabiri attended Ibanda Primary School, Bweranyangi Boarding Primary School, Kyebambe Secondary School, and Kings College Buddo—often on bursaries owing to her academic excellence. She chose Buddo over Gayaza Girls’ School, saying, “Gayaza was to prepare girls to be ministers’ wives. I opted to go to Buddo to compete with boys.”

Nakabiri broke new ground in 1973, petitioning for female officers to handle firearms and competing with men at the shooting range. She later headed the Women Police Administration and served as staff officer in Greater Kampala Region, among other posts. Her career faced challenges, especially during the turbulent political years between 1966 and the 1970s, but Nakabiri remained resilient.

She was decorated by Uganda Women, recognized at the International Darts Competition in the UK, and won the All Armed Forces International Shooting Competition in Ghana—earning recognition from President Idi Amin and a promotion to Senior Superintendent of Police. She also received the Independence Medal (1965), Meritous Medal (1976), and was honored by President Yoweri Museveni on Women’s Day 2013.

Nakabiri retired in 1981, serving in various roles including Head of Women Police Administration and Security Officer with the Uganda Cooperative Central Union Ltd. She leaves behind a legacy of passion, resilience, and mentorship. In her own words: “Work hard, be passionate, patient and love (the country and God). Always keep focused. Patience pays.”

Uganda salutes SSP (Rtd) Jane Nancy Nakabiri, a pioneer whose life paved the way for generations of women in law enforcement.