Mercy K. Kainobwisho, the Registrar General, Official Receiver, CEO, and Accounting Officer of the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), was honored with the 2024 Outstanding Public Officer of the Year award by the KACITA Quality Awards. This achievement is one among many, as Kainobwisho is recognized both locally and internationally for her leadership, innovation, and contributions to public service, leadership, corporate governance, corporate law and intellectual property.
In addition to her significant duties in Uganda, Kainobwisho also holds influential roles in the Africa Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). She has been instrumental in numerous reform initiatives at URSB, including the digitization and automation of records, which have enhanced operational efficiency and led to URSB’s recognition as Government Agency of the Year in 2024. A firm believer in the value of human resources, she has prioritized empowering and improving benefits for URSB staff, recognizing them as essential to the organization’s success.
Kainobwisho’s journey as a leader began early, holding leadership roles from primary school through university and serving on several boards. Her accolades reflect her dedication and impact across diverse fields, including:
1. Outstanding Public Service Officer of the Year 2024, KACITA Quality Awards
2. Named among the Most Outstanding CEOs in Uganda (2023) by CEO Magazine
3. Recognized as Best Fundraiser of the Year 2023 for Rotary Club of Bukoto’s school project in Kabutemba, Gomba District
4. Africa Brand Leadership Excellence Award (2022) for promoting intellectual property and business development across Africa
5. Best Rotary District Officer (2021/22), honoring service within Rotary District 9213
6. Top Female Leader in Africa (2021) by the Christian Women Network Association, celebrating her influence in advancing social and professional development
7. Multiple Rotary International Awards (2020) for leadership, community service, and empowering women
8. Listed among the Top 40 Most Influential Women in Africa (2019)
9. Named in Top 40 under 40 Youth in Uganda (2017), recognizing young leaders excelling in law, leadership and community service
10. Best Executive Secretary (2017/18) for Rotary Club of Bukoto
11. Outstanding Leadership Award (2016/17), Rotary Club of Bukoto
12. Awarded Best Corporate Female Lawyer in Uganda (2017) by the Uganda Law Society
13. Recognized as Smartest Staff of the Year at URSB (2015) for excellence in service, performance, and professional demeanor.
Kainobwisho’s impact extends beyond awards, as her leadership has consistently driven progress and inspired positive change in public service, corporate law, leadership and intellectual property rights promotion across Uganda and the African continent.
