Irene Gleeson (born 1944, Australia – died 2013, Australia) was an Australian humanitarian worker and philanthropist, best known for her extensive work with children in Northern Uganda. After selling her home and possessions in Australia, Gleeson moved to Uganda in 1993 to provide aid and education to children orphaned, displaced, and affected by the protracted civil war and the HIV/AIDS epidemic, particularly in the Kitgum region. She founded the Irene Gleeson Foundation (IGF), which grew to become a significant non-governmental organization providing education, healthcare, and welfare services to thousands of children.
Early Life and Background
Irene Gleeson was born and raised in Australia. Before her move to Uganda, she was a mother and grandmother living a conventional life. A strong sense of purpose and a desire to help those less fortunate led her to make the transformative decision to dedicate her life to humanitarian work. She reportedly sold her property and possessions in Australia to fund her initial efforts in Africa.
Work in Uganda and the Irene Gleeson Foundation
In 1993, Gleeson arrived in Kitgum, Northern Uganda, a region severely affected by the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency and its brutal impact on the civilian population, especially children. Many children were orphaned, abducted as child soldiers, or displaced into internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, and the region also grappled with high rates of HIV/AIDS.
Initially, Gleeson began by providing food and basic care to a small group of children. Her efforts quickly expanded, leading to the establishment of the Irene Gleeson Foundation (IGF). Under her leadership, the IGF developed comprehensive programs, including:
- Education: Establishing and operating numerous schools, from primary to secondary levels, providing free education to thousands of children who otherwise would not have access.
- Healthcare: Offering medical services, health clinics, and support for children affected by HIV/AIDS and other illnesses.
- Food Security: Providing daily meals to students, ensuring they had at least one nutritious meal a day.
- Vocational Training: Implementing programs to equip older children and youth with practical skills for future employment.
- Reintegration: Supporting former child soldiers and those traumatized by war through psychosocial support and educational opportunities.
Gleeson was affectionately known as "Mama Irene" by the local community, a testament to her dedication and the maternal care she provided to the children of Kitgum. By the time of her death, the IGF was supporting over 10,000 children annually across multiple schools and programs.
Recognition and Awards
For her unwavering commitment and significant contributions to humanitarian aid, Irene Gleeson was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2009. The award recognized her service to international relations, particularly through humanitarian aid and development programs for children in Uganda.
Death and Legacy
Irene Gleeson was diagnosed with cancer and returned to Australia for treatment. She passed away in 2013. Despite her death, the Irene Gleeson Foundation continues its work in Northern Uganda, operating under her established vision and principles. Her legacy endures through the thousands of lives she touched and the sustainable educational and welfare infrastructure she helped build in one of Uganda's most vulnerable regions.
References
- Irene Gleeson Foundation official website
- Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) reports
- News archives and documentaries profiling her work in Uganda