Irene Gleeson Foundation Honors Mama Irene’s Legacy with Memorial Events 

Lamwo: The leadership of the Irene Gleeson Foundation (IGF), a charity organization operating in Uganda, has commemorated the 2025 Mama Irene Memorial by reflecting on her three foundational pillars of faith, love, and courage.

This was revealed by IGF’s Executive Director, Mr. John Paul Kiffasi, during a week-long visit to the five schools under the foundation’s care.

Speaking at IGF Childcare Palabek Nursery and Primary School, located in Palabek Kal Sub-county, Lamwo District, last week, Mr. Kiffasi praised Mama Irene Gleeson’s life of sacrifice. He noted that she dedicated her resources and life from Australia during the peak of the LRA insurgency to support the Acholi people, especially vulnerable children.

“Mama Irene started with just 50 children, and today her impact has grown to over 10,000 children across our schools,” said Mr. Kiffasi.

He also highlighted Mama Irene’s legacy in introducing school feeding programs, health initiatives, and Bible teachings, starting from one school and now expanded to five nursery and primary schools under IGF.

Mr. Kiffasi expressed gratitude to the Palabek Pauma community for offering land to establish the school, and he reminded the learners about embracing the values of faith, love, and courage that defined Mama Irene’s vision.

Ms. Gladys Amito, Deputy Headteacher of Childcare Palabek Nursery and Primary School, reported that the school currently has 302 learners, comprising 173 boys and 129 girls, with 32 in nursery and 270 in primary.

She thanked the IGF leadership for their continued support in 2025, which included the provision of play materials, 100 additional seats, consistent feeding programs, and improved staffing levels.

Mr. Kidega Santo Banya, Chairperson of the School Management Committee, expressed appreciation to IGF, Mama Irene, and the parents for promoting education in Lamwo District and beyond. He emphasized the strong unity between the school and the local community, which has fostered a conducive learning environment.

Over the years, IGF’s annual charity walks have raised support for key initiatives including establishment of a hospital, provision of scholastic materials, feeding programs for nodding disease victims and promoting knowledge and awareness about Mama Irene Gleeson’s life and work.

Mama Irene Gleeson, born in 1944, lived in Kitgum, Uganda for 22 years. She dedicated her life to the Acholi children, transforming lives through education, health, and spiritual care. She passed away in July 2013, just one week after the establishment of Palabek Childcare School.

Currently IGF own other Schools including Childcare Padibe and Palabek Schools in Lamwo district, Childcare Amida, Nakwanya and Childcare International School in Kitgum district.

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