The Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago and the Executive Director of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki, today visited Rubaga Cathedral to sign the condolence book and pay their respects to the late Pope Francis, whose passing has caused profound sorrow across the world.
The KCCA delegation was warmly welcomed by Rev. Father Pius Male Ssentumbwe, the Chancellor of the Kampala Archdiocese, who received them with deep appreciation.
Rev. Father Male expressed gratitude to the city leaders for standing in solidarity with the Catholic Church during this period of mourning. He informed the delegation that the Archbishop of Kampala, His Grace Paul Ssemogerere, would have been present but is currently in the Vatican.
Rev. Father Achilles Mayanja, the Administrator of Rubaga Cathedral, also expressed heartfelt thanks on behalf of the cathedral. He announced that a national requiem mass in honor of Pope Francis would be held at Rubaga Cathedral on Friday, April 25 at 12 p.m. The faithful are expected to attend in large numbers as preparations continue for the Pope’s burial scheduled for Saturday.
As many reflected on Pope Francis’s visit to Uganda in 2015, his compassion, humility, and unwavering love for the poor and marginalized were fondly remembered.
“He was a unifying figure whose message of peace, compassion, and inclusivity transcended borders and beliefs,” said Lord Mayor Lukwago.
He emphasized the Pope’s lasting influence on humanity, particularly his humility and dedication to justice in troubled regions such as South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where ongoing conflicts have displaced thousands.
“Pope Francis reminded us of the power of love, dignity, and human solidarity,” Lukwago added. “His voice for refugees and the oppressed remains a beacon in a world grappling with division and inequality.”
Hajjat Buzeki encouraged all Ugandans to reflect deeply on the Pope’s teachings. “As you grieve the loss of such an extraordinary leader, I urge you to reflect on the profound teachings and the example he set throughout his papacy. His commitment to social justice, care for our planet, and advocacy for the underprivileged continue to resonate,” Buzeki said.
She went on to praise the Catholic Church for its significant role in shaping Uganda’s moral and social fabric, stating, “Your continued efforts to uplift those around you are a true reflection of Pope Francis’s legacy.”
As Kampala joins the global community in mourning, the city leadership reaffirmed its unwavering support to the Church and its faithful. “Together,” said Buzeki, “we shall honor Pope Francis’s memory by embracing his message of hope, unity, and compassion.”