According to the Ministry, Ambassador Kinyera passed away at Mulago National Referral Hospital in the early hours of March 3, 2026. The cause of her death has not yet been officially disclosed.

Ambassador Santa Laker Kinyera was a seasoned diplomat who played a significant role in strengthening and rebuilding relations between Uganda and Rwanda, particularly in the areas of trade, security cooperation, and cross-border movement.

She joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1994, marking more than three decades of service in diplomacy. Throughout her career, she held various high-level responsibilities, including representing Uganda in different diplomatic capacities.

In Uganda, she is widely remembered for her contribution during a period when relations between Rwanda and Uganda had deteriorated, leading to the closure of borders and disruption of trade and movement. She was part of the team that worked tirelessly to help normalize ties and restore cooperation between the two neighboring countries.

Further details regarding funeral arrangements are expected to be communicated by the Ugandan authorities.