President Museveni has pledged government support for initiatives led by Cardinal Emmanuel Wamala, honoring the cleric’s decades-long contribution to faith and social development in Uganda.
The meeting between the President and the 99-year-old prelate, one of the oldest living Cardinals in the world, provided a rare moment of reflection on the nation’s history.
Cardinal Wamala, who served as Archbishop of Kampala from 1990 to 2006, has long been a voice of reason during Uganda’s political transitions.
Born in 1926 in Lwaggulwe, Masaka, his journey from village altar boy to Prince of the Church mirrors Uganda’s religious evolution.
During the meeting, Museveni confirmed that the government will support Kamagwa Hospital, run by the Wamala family foundation, while it continues to operate as a private facility.
In addition, the Ministry of Tourism will assist in establishing a museum to preserve Cardinal Wamala’s legacy, highlighting his contributions to social cohesion, education, and community development.
“At his request, I have accepted to serve as Patron of the project. I wish him good health and God’s blessings as he marks 99 years,” Museveni said.
The Kamagwa Hospital provides essential healthcare services to local communities in the Masaka sub-region, and government support is expected to enhance its capacity to deliver quality care.
The planned museum will serve as a national center to honor Cardinal Wamala’s role in Uganda’s religious and civic life, highlighting his lifelong commitment to social transformation.
Beyond the pulpit, Cardinal Wamala was a key figure in the 1990s fight against the HIV/Aids epidemic, working with the government to promote behavioral change while upholding Church doctrine.
His leadership, often described as “calm but firm,” guided the Church through the complexities of Uganda’s post-bush war era.
President Museveni’s endorsement reflects ongoing collaboration between the government and faith-based organizations to advance social welfare, healthcare, and cultural preservation.
As he approaches his centenary, Cardinal Wamala’s initiatives, with government support, aim to ensure that his message of “Peace to All” continues to inspire future generations.
