Cissy Kibirige Karim, the first wife of wealthy Kampala businessman Karim Hirji, has died.
Cissy, as she was fondly known, passed away on Thursday, April 4, 2024 at a medical facility in Kampala.
She was in her late 60s.
The cause of death is yet to be announced by the media.
However, family members said Cissy had spent the past two weeks on dialysis over kidney complications.
Cissy’s friends described her as “free spirited” and a “lovely soul” whose home was “open to all.”
She is survived by her husband Karim and two children – Rahim and Sherina who live in London, UK.
Cissy was Karim’s first wife. When Amin threw out the Indians in 1972, Karim’s family left Uganda. However, Karim stayed in Uganda because of Cissy’s parents.
Karim dropped out of school and stayed with Cissy’s parents in Kamwokya.
He would later start trading on Luwum street before venturing in importation of clothes and spirits.
Cissy would later travel to the UK and then Texas, United States where she bought property and lived for many years.
About five years ago, Cissy returned to Uganda. She briefly lived in Kololo before relocating to Karim’s home in Entebbe near Botanical Hotel.
“Cissy’s family saved Karim’s life,” said a close friend, adding, “Karim would not have been what he is today if it were not for her family’s support. So she is part of his success story.”
The deceased will be laid to rest in Gayaza Namayina on Saturday, April 2024.
Cissy’s friends described her as “free spirited” and a “lovely soul” whose home was “open to all”
Credit: Chimpreports