KCCA LEADERS PAY TRIBUTE TO POPE FRANCIS AT RUBAGA CATHEDRAL

The Lord Mayor of Kampala, Hajj Erias Lukwago, and the Executive Director of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki, visited Rubaga Cathedral on Wednesday April 23, to sign the condolence book and pay their respects to the late Pope Francis, whose passing has stirred deep sorrow across the globe.

Welcomed by Rev. Father Pius Male Ssentumbwe, Chancellor of the Kampala Archdiocese, the KCCA delegation was received with warmth and appreciation.

Rev. Father Male thanked the city leaders for standing in solidarity with the Catholic Church during this time of mourning. He informed the deligation that The Archbishop of Kampala, His Grace Paul Ssemogerere, would have been present but is currently in the Vatican.

Rev. Father Achilles Mayanja, the Rubaga Cathedral Administrator, expressed gratitude on behalf of the cathedral and announced that a national requiem mass in honor of Pope Francis will be held at Rubaga Cathedral on Friday, April 25 at 12 p.m. The faithful are expected to gather in large numbers as preparations continue for the Pope’s burial on Saturday.

Reflecting on the Pope’s 2015 visit to Uganda, many remembered his compassion, humility, and his unwavering love for the poor and marginalized.

"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 enduring influence on humanity, particularly his humility and commitment to justice in regions like South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where conflict continues to displace 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 struggling with division and inequality.”

Buzeki urged all Ugandans to reflect on the Pope’s teachings. “As you grieve the loss of such an extraordinary leader, I encourage you to reflect on the profound teachings and example he set throughout his papacy. His dedication to social justice, care for our Earth, and advocacy for the less fortunate resonate,” Buzeki said.

She further commended the Catholic Church’s pivotal role in shaping Uganda’s moral and social landscape, adding, “Your continued service to uplift those around you is a testament to Pope Francis’s legacy.”

As Kampala joins the world in mourning, the city leadership reaffirmed its 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.”

By Geofrey Mutegeki Araali

Communication and Media Relations Officer