The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has commended Archbishop Joseph Nakabaale Kiwanuka for his transformative contributions to education, economic empowerment, and the Catholic faith in Uganda, saying the Archbishop’s legacy laid a foundation that continues to benefit both Buganda Kingdom and the nation.
Mayiga made the remarks while inspecting ongoing construction works at the Archbishop Kiwanuka Memorial Site in Nakirebe, Mpigi District, the Archbishop’s birthplace. The project includes building a cathedral and a mausoleum to house his remains and personal artifacts.
Speaking during a fundraising event supporting the memorial works, Mayiga described Archbishop Kiwanuka as a visionary leader whose influence opened doors for Uganda and Africa on the global stage.
“As the first indigenous African Bishop, he brought great honor to Uganda and demonstrated that Africans are equally capable of excellence. Some believed Africa’s doors would close under his leadership, but he proved them wrong through his remarkable service,” Mayiga said.
The Katikkiro highlighted Archbishop Kiwanuka’s transformative impact in Buddu County, Masaka, noting that the region’s strong educational standards are largely attributed to his initiatives.
“When he was posted to Masaka, he placed great emphasis on education. Researchers may confirm this, but I doubt there is any region in Uganda with more highly educated people than Buddu. Many of the first Ugandans to assume leadership roles in government during the colonial era came from Masaka,” he added.
Beyond education, Mayiga noted that Archbishop Kiwanuka championed economic empowerment, encouraging communities to grow coffee and cotton and to embrace cooperative movements.
He referenced early cooperative initiatives, such as “Bwaavu Mpologoma,” to unite farmers for collective economic growth.
“He understood that spiritual growth alone is not enough without economic stability,” Mayiga said, adding that Masaka’s continued economic resilience reflects the Archbishop’s foresight.
The Katikkiro also applauded those spearheading the memorial project for preserving Archbishop Kiwanuka’s legacy.
“I thank those who purchased the land where he was born. It is fitting that such an important figure’s birthplace is preserved and upgraded to the standards it deserves. We are grateful for this initiative,” he said.
Emmanuel Tinkasimire, overseeing the memorial project and representing Christians from Nakirebe sub-parish, said the construction coincides with preparations to mark 60 years since the Archbishop’s passing.
“We are organizing this project as we prepare to commemorate 60 years since Archbishop Kiwanuka left us. We call upon all Ugandans, wherever they are, to support this noble cause,” Tinkasimire said. He revealed that the planned developments include a cathedral, a mausoleum to preserve the Archbishop’s remains and personal effects, among other facilities.
Archbishop Joseph Nakabaale Kiwanuka was born in 1899 in Nakirebe, Mpigi District. He made history as the first indigenous African Catholic bishop south of the Sahara and passed away on February 22, 1966. This month marks 60 years since his death.
