Tribute to Peter Kamalingin
Abraham Lincoln once said, “It is not the years in your life that matter, but the life in your years.” If there is one person who truly embodied this statement, it is Mr. Peter Kamalingin, who recently passed away in India at the age of 50 after a period of hospitalization.
Peter started his journey at ActionAid International Uganda as a Field Officer in Kapchorwa. He later took on the role of Regional Policy Officer in Pallisa, where he worked with marginalized communities struggling with extreme poverty. His efforts focused on empowering these communities to become self-reliant.
He was then transferred to ActionAid Uganda's Country Office in Kampala, where he served as the officer in charge of the internalization process. He played a crucial role in helping ActionAid Uganda achieve its status as a registered NGO in Uganda. This accomplishment led him to the policy department, where he utilized his expertise to promote the development of meaningful, long-lasting policies.
He transitioned to Care International in 2005, where he served as the Head of Emergencies and the Team Leader for Northern Uganda. Later, he became the Pan Africa Program Director at Oxfam International before returning to ActionAid as the Global Director of Political and Programme Strategy. In 2024, he joined UNAIDS as the Country Director for South Sudan, where he served until his passing.
Outside of his formal work life, Peter was dedicated to bringing lasting change to his community. He advocated for the education of underprivileged individuals by providing scholarships.
The church held a special place in his heart, and he led fundraising efforts for the construction of the Cathedral in Kapchorwa. Despite his global engagements, Peter never forgot the importance of culture and identity. He facilitated gatherings between the Kalengin communities in Kenya and Uganda to promote unity and development.
Peter had a generous spirit that extended beyond his immediate family. He served as a foster parent to several young people in the Sebei Sub-region. We celebrate his remarkable impact. May his soul rest in peace.
