Dr. Kacyira passed away on August 12, 2025, at the age of 61 after battling illness. Her funeral service was held at Christian Life Assembly (CLA) in Kigali, where she was a devoted member. Family, friends, government officials, and representatives of international organisations joined to celebrate her life of service and bid her farewell.
Kacyira's career spanned senior roles in Rwanda and abroad. She served as Mayor of Kigali (2006â€"2011), Governor of the Eastern Province, Deputy Executive Director of UN-Habitat (2011â€"2018), and later Rwanda's Ambassador to Ghana with concurrent accreditation to several West African countries. In 2023, UN Secretary-General António Guterres appointed her as Head of the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), a position she held until her death.
Her legacy is remembered for leadership, humility, and an unwavering commitment to public service, both in Rwanda and across the world.
In a message delivered by RPF Secretary-General Wellars Gasamagera, President Paul Kagame and his family expressed deep sorrow at her passing.
'The President of the Republic and his family received with sadness the news of the passing of Dr. Aissa Kirabo Kacyira. They join her family and all Rwandans in this time of grief. Her life was marked by courage, dedication, and love for her country. Rwandans will forever remember her tireless devotion as a lasting legacy. May she rest in eternal peace.'
AIG Hilaly Sao, representing the African Union, hailed the late ambassador as a champion of African unity:
'She embodied the spirit of unity, working with dedication, patience, and commitment. In Somalia, she demonstrated compassion, humility, and determination in pursuit of peace and security. She will truly be missed.'
Ambassador James Swan, representing UNSOS, described her death as a profound loss:
'Aissa was a brave, thoughtful person, with a gentle heart and a source of inspiration. She left a mark on everyone she met. Her legacy is one of leadership, expertise, and service with compassion. To us in the UN, she was more than a colleague.'
Her son, Joshua Kacyira, speaking on behalf of her children, said their mother's strongest legacy was her faith and devotion to service.
'She loved God and served both her country and the world wholeheartedly. She taught us not only through education but also through relationships built with others. The greatest gift she gave us was to love and trust in God.'
Her husband, Col (Rtd) Simon Kacyira, thanked the Government of Rwanda, the UN, and all who stood with the family.
'I deeply thank UNSOS and everyone who cared for Aissa. She was simple, grounded, and true. Even now that she's gone, she remained the same person I chose to walk with.'
Rania Umutoni
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/tributes-pour-in-as-amb-aissa-kirabo-kacyira-is-laid-to-rest
