Prof. Erisa Olwenyi Ochieng was born on 12th January 1944 to the late Yokana Olwenyi and Peresi Nyamwenge Olwenyi. From an early age, he demonstrated intellectual brilliance, discipline, and a deep commitment to excellence that would define his life’s journey.
He began his education at Rubongi Primary School and Kachonga School before proceeding to King’s College Buddo. He later joined Makerere University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Economics in 1970 and subsequently a Master of Arts in Economics in 1973. His academic foundation marked the beginning of an illustrious career in economic policy, research, and national development.
Prof. Ochieng dedicated over 25 years to university teaching and research. He served as Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor, and Head of the Department of Economics at Makerere University. He also taught at the University of Botswana and Swaziland. He later served as Advisor to the Secretary to the Treasury in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, and as Director of the Export Policy Analysis and Development Unit (EPADU) under the Ministry of Finance/USAID.
A nationally and regionally recognized Development Economist and Planner, Prof. Ochieng participated at high levels in the formulation and implementation of Uganda’s macroeconomic reforms, trade liberalization, privatization policies, agricultural strategy, employment and labour policies. His work influenced public expenditure reforms not only in Uganda but also in Rwanda and Sierra Leone.
He served with distinction on numerous Boards including the Bank of Uganda, Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, National Social Security Fund, Uganda National Council of Science and Technology, Mbarara University Council, Economic Policy Research Centre, National Teachers College Nagongera, and Global Trust Bank. He was President of the Uganda Economics Association from 1990 to 2001 and was widely respected for his integrity, intellect, and leadership.
Prof. Ochieng authored over ten publications including two landmark books:
“Economic Stabilization and Adjustment Programmes in Uganda (1981–1995)”
“Trade Secrets: The Export Answer Book for SMEs in Uganda”
He also wrote over 40 conference and seminar papers and mentored generations of economists and policy makers.
Beyond his professional achievements, Prof. Ochieng was a devoted husband to Mrs. Lois Achieng Ochieng, a loving father to Sarah Nyachwo Mwaka, Paul Odoi, Patricia Esther Abbo, and Moses Olwenyi, and a proud grandfather to eleven cherised grandchildren: Susan Mwaka, David Africa Mwaka, Lois Siemi Mwaka, Philip Erisa Mwaka, Jethro Mboti Odoi, Paula Nyapendi Odoi, Lois Wor Odoi, Josiah Erisa Tanga, Hellenah Tezira Akumu, Lois Tanga and Lois Sarah Ayundah. He valued family deeply and led by example through wisdom, humility, and steadfast faith.
Prof. Erisa Olwenyi Ochieng peacefully passed on 12th February 2026. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Vigil will be held at the family residence on Plot 4 Marty’s Link Ntinda on Thursday, 19th February 2026 starting at 5:00pm.
There will be a funeral Service at St Luke`s Church Ntinda on Friday, 20th February 2026 starting at 10:00am.
Burial will take place in Nabuyoga, Tororo District on Saturday, 21st February 2026 starting at 11:00am.
Informed are; Relatives, Friends and In-laws
MAY HIS SOUL REST IN ETERNAL PEACE.
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