Uganda: Today in History - Cyprian Kizito Lwanga Installed As Kampala Archbishop

Dr Cyprian Kizito Lwanga is installed as the third Archbishop of Kampala on this day in 2006 at Rubaga Cathedral, succeeding Cardinal Emmanuel Wamala and beginning a 15-year tenure at the head of Uganda's most prominent Catholic archdiocese.

Lwanga, born on January 19, 1953, at Kyabakadde in present-day Mukono District, was the son of a catechist. He entered Nyenga Seminary in 1964 before continuing his formation at Katigondo National Major Seminary and Ggaba National Major Seminary. He was ordained a priest of the Archdiocese of Kampala on April 8, 1978, by Cardinal Emmanuel Kiwanuka Nsubuga.

After further studies in administration and languages in France, Lwanga earned a doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical Urban University and the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome. In November 1996, he was appointed the founding bishop of the newly created Diocese of Kasana-Luweero and was consecrated the following year.

Pope Benedict XVI appointed Lwanga Archbishop of Kampala in August 2006. His installation at Rubaga Cathedral on September 30 formally marked his transition from Kasana-Luweero to the metropolitan see, where he would serve until his death on April 3, 2021.

During his tenure, Lwanga placed emphasis on strengthening the administration and financial sustainability of the Archdiocese of Kampala while supporting the development of parishes, schools and health facilities. He also championed social development and charitable programmes aimed at addressing poverty and expanding access to education and healthcare.

Beyond the Church, Lwanga became a prominent voice on national issues, speaking on human rights, good governance, peace, social justice and dialogue during periods of political tension. He also participated in ecumenical and interfaith initiatives, including through the Uganda Joint Christian Council.

His episcopal motto, "Ora et Labora ut Habeant Vitam", meaning "Pray and work so as to have life to the full", reflected the emphasis he placed on both faith and service.

Lwanga died suddenly on April 3, 2021, aged 68. He was succeeded as Archbishop of Kampala by Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere.

Read the original article on Nile Post.