In February this year, Justus Mirembe was among the few fortunate individuals to receive the last signatures and stamps of appreciation from former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau just before handing over power to the current Prime Minister Mark Carney.
It was recognition of Mirembe’s 20 years of dedicated service to the Government of Canada, a journey that has seen him stand on the frontlines of protecting wildlife, enforcing trade laws, and upholding international conservation agreements.
As a Federal Public Servant since October 2002, Mirembe has worked under five Canadian Prime Ministers: Jean Chrétien, Paul Martin, Stephen Harper, Justin Trudeau, and now Mark Carney. His expertise lies in the high-stakes world of enforcing laws related to inter-provincial and international trade in endangered wildlife and natural resources. Whether it’s stopping illegal trafficking through airports, sea terminals, or border crossings, Mirembe has spent two decades safeguarding ecosystems that extend far beyond Canada’s borders.
Beyond the badge
Beyond his uniform, Mirembe boasts of his impact among the Ugandan diaspora. When Ronnie Mayanja first shared the idea of the Uganda Canada Convention, Mirembe was eager to help shape the vision.
Together, they co-chaired the convention’s landmark debut in Vancouver in 2012, an event that would go on to become a cornerstone for Ugandan professionals, entrepreneurs, and cultural ambassadors in Canada. Over the years, the convention has grown in reach and reputation, with successful editions in Toronto, Ottawa, and beyond.
Today, Mirembe proudly serves as Co-Chair of the Uganda Canada Convention & Business Tourism Expo, continuing to connect communities and push opportunities between Uganda and Canada.
Occupation
Based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Mirembe has built not only a remarkable career but also a life grounded in purpose. He holds a degree in Forensic Criminology, specializing in Crime and Intelligence, from Douglas College and the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT).
Currently, he is part of a Federal Armed Elite Enforcement Unit that specializes in the control and monitoring of trade in endangered species of flora and fauna.
He also lends his voice and wisdom to broader community initiatives. A former UNAA Council Representative for Canada, he now sits on the Board of Trustees for the Uganda North America Association (UNAA), a position that aligns with his commitment to diaspora development.