Bushenyi District Council has resolved to rename Bushenyi Main Stadium as the Mary Karooro Okurut Stadium in memory of the former minister’s service and legacy.
The motion was moved by Kyamuhunga Town Council councillor Edward Mpeirwe, the secretary for education, health, and community-based services.
“As Bushenyi District Council, we have unanimously resolved to rename our main stadium in memory of our fallen daughter. We are grieving; it’s a dark week for us. But to keep her legacy alive, we thought it best to reward her in this way,” said District Chairman Jaffari Bassajjabalaba.
The council also appealed to President Yoweri Museveni and Parliament to secure funds to upgrade the stadium into a modern facility, similar to the AKi Bua Stadium in Lira City.
Local Government Minister Raphael Magyezi, who attended the council session, praised the resolution and pledged to take the matter to the president.
“What else can we give Karooro? We are very grateful for all her contributions. As government, we will ensure this stadium is developed,” he said.
Karooro was lauded for championing unity in Bushenyi, supporting the establishment of a women’s skills centre, and initiating the construction of a sanitary pad factory near Bushenyi Town.
The council urged government to complete the factory to fulfil her vision.
Her successor, Bushenyi District Woman MP Annette Katusiime Mugisha, said she had benefitted from Karooro’s groundwork.
“We can’t thank her enough. We shall always remember and celebrate her contributions. May her soul rest in eternity,” she said.
The body of Mary Karooro Okurut is expected in Bushenyi this afternoon for prayers at St. Peter’s Cathedral, Bweranyangyi, before burial tomorrow in Bwatogo Cell, Bushenyi–Ishaka Municipality.