Her Name Was Gwera: Love Lived Out

Deborah Gwera Nsibirwa Ssentongo, affectionately known as Gwera Deborah, was born on 19 July 1936 in Mindi Village, Kasawo, to Erinah Nankya Nsibirwa and Mantene (Martin Luther) Nsibirwa. She was raised in a nurturing home rooted in love, discipline, and strong Christian values—principles that shaped her character and guided her life.

The name “Gwera” carries profound meaning in Luganda: “omukwano gwera oba gweyongera eri bona”—love that spreads and grows among all people. This meaning was lovingly explained and affirmed by family elders and relatives, including her sisters Maama Rhoda, Maama Janet, Maama Eseza, Maama Robinah; her brothers Koja Philipo and Koja Dr. Semu; and her husband George William Ssentongo. True to her name, Gwera lived a life marked by kindness, humility, and generosity, extending equal love to family, friends, and the wider community.

Soft-spoken and gentle in spirit, Gwera was known for her politeness and deep affection for her siblings. She received her early education at Mengo Primary School in the 1940s, where she excelled in practical and domestic skills such as weaving, tailoring, and other handcrafts. These skills later defined her as a capable homemaker and a patient mentor to younger women, whom she guided with quiet wisdom and example.

On 21 January 1956, Gwera Deborah was joined in holy matrimony to George William Ssentongo in a solemn church ceremony at St Paul’s Cathedral Namirembe.

Their union was blessed with eight children, listed in birth order:

Herbert L. Estaliko Kyanja

Gladys Nantongo Nantaba Erina Kyalimpa (Late)

Patrick J. Segawa

Daniel Kaddu

Stephen Kabugo (Late)

Sunday Martin Luther Ssentongo

Beatrice Nakibuuka (Late)

Peter Musaasizi Ssentongo – last-born son and heir of George William Ssentongo

Over the years, the family endured the pain of loss, and five of the children are currently living. Through both joy and hardship, Gwera remained a steady pillar of strength, faith, and compassion within her family.

Deborah Gwera N. Ssentongo passed away on 9 September 1990 at Nakulabye Bukesa Parish, Katende Zone. Though her life on earth ended, her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and all whose lives were touched by her quiet strength, gentle counsel, and unwavering love. Following her passing, the recognised family heir is Maama Phyllis Nalunga Nsibirwa Mukasa.

Gwera’s life remains a testament to the enduring power of love that spreads, grows, and binds generations together.