The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has praised Christians in Nakirebe for organizing a memorial lecture to honour Uganda's first Archbishop Joseph Nakabaale Kiwanuka, highlighting his courage, leadership, and enduring legacy in the Church, Buganda Kingdom, and the nation.
"It is very important to remember a historical figure who made significant contributions to his people and his country," said Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga while commending Nakirebe Christians for organizing a memorial lecture in honor of Archbishop Joseph Nakabaale Kiwanuka.
Speaking during the event, based on the theme "Breaking the Chains of Fear," the Katikkiro highlighted how Archbishop Kiwanuka rose from modest educational beginnings but fearlessly advanced his knowledge, talents, and leadership.
"He did not allow his background to limit him. Instead, he courageously developed himself and provided leadership that left a strong foundation," Mayiga noted, adding that Kiwanuka's courage left a lasting impact on the Church, Buganda Kingdom, and Uganda as a whole.
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Archbishop Kiwanuka, a native of Nakirebe, is being commemorated through plans to construct a memorial church in his honour.
Archbishop Joseph Nakabaale Kiwanuka (1899-1966) was a pioneering Ugandan Catholic leader and the first indigenous African Catholic bishop south of the Sahara.
Born in Nakirebe, Mpigi District, he rose from modest beginnings to become Archbishop of Rubaga, leading the Catholic Church in Uganda at a time when most leadership was dominated by European missionaries.
Known for his courage, vision, and steadfast faith, Kiwanuka emphasized education, particularly in Buddu County, Masaka, helping establish strong schools and nurturing many of Uganda's early educated leaders during the colonial era.
He also championed economic empowerment, encouraging communities to grow coffee and cotton and to form cooperatives for collective prosperity, blending spiritual leadership with practical social and economic development.
His legacy left a lasting imprint on the Church, the Buganda Kingdom, and Uganda as a whole, symbolizing African excellence and leadership.
Today, memorial projects including a cathedral, church, and mausoleum are underway in his birthplace, Nakirebe, to honour his life and enduring contributions to faith, education, and societal growth.
The day's activities included a lecture about his life and a fundraising event to support the completion of the church, the parish house, and other related facilities.
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The Katikkiro was accompanied by Minister Joseph Kawuki. In Mawokota, they were received by Hajj Hassan Kasujja Kagga, custodian of the Kayima seat, Dr Stephen Sseruyange, deputy county chief, other Kingdom officials, and religious leaders.
