A visit to remember when Pope Francis was in Uganda

The world is mourning the death of Pope Francis, who passed away peacefully on April 21, 2025, at 7:35 a.m. local time. The Vatican confirmed his death, with Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the chamberlain (Camerlengo), officially announcing the news. “The Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father,” Cardinal Farrell said.

Pope Francis, known for his deep faith, compassion, and simple life, left a global impact. But for Ugandans, his visit in 2015 remains a treasured moment of spiritual importance.

A Visit That Touched the Nation

Pope Francis came to Uganda in November 2015, becoming the third pope to visit after Pope Paul VI in 1969 and Pope John Paul II in 1993. His trip was part of a larger journey through Africa and his first as the first Jesuit and first Southern Hemisphere pope.

He was warmly welcomed with cheers, dancing, flags, and songs from people of all religions. His main stop was the Namugongo Martyrs Shrine, where he led Mass in honor of 22 young Catholic Martyrs killed in the 1880s for refusing to abandon their Christian faith. His visit marked the 50th anniversary of their canonization in 1964.

Also read: Pope Francis Dies at 88: Tributes Pour in for the Beloved Pontiff

During his homily at Namugongo, Pope Francis spoke clearly and powerfully:

His final public words in Uganda, “Omukama Abawe Omukisa”, meaning “May the Lord bless you” in Luganda, touched many hearts and are still remembered today.

Deep Impact in Nalukolongo

At Nalukolongo, one of Kampala’s poorest areas, Pope Francis called on Ugandans to never forget the poor. He spoke out against society’s growing indifference, especially towards the elderly, unborn children, and victims of human trafficking.

Today, Nalukolongo still honors that moment. The exact place where Pope Francis stepped from his car is marked by a special “Papal Footprint” preserved in front of the chapel. It stands near the grave of Cardinal Emmanuel Nsubuga, a symbol of faith and hope.

A Message of Hope for the Youth

At Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, Pope Francis addressed nearly 10,000 young Ugandans. His words were filled with encouragement:

He urged them to become leaders of change, showing love, wisdom, and justice in all they do.

At a meeting with leaders at State House Entebbe, Pope Francis also praised Uganda for helping refugees from conflict-hit countries. He called Uganda a “continent of hope,” recognizing its strong youth, spiritual strength, and rich natural resources.

He also visited the Anglican shrine and helped open the Uganda Martyrs Museum, a project led by the late Archbishop Livingstone Mpalanyi Nkoyoyo and supported by Archbishop Cyprian Kizito Lwanga, who had asked the pope to visit in a 2013 meeting.

A Papacy Defined by Action and Reform

Beyond Uganda, Pope Francis will also be remembered for trying to clean up the Catholic Church after decades of child sexual abuse scandals. At a 2019 summit with top bishops, he called the abuse a “human sacrifice”, comparing it to ancient sins.

Also read: Pope Francis Dies at 88: Tributes Pour in for the Beloved Pontiff

He approved new rules requiring mandatory conduct codes, training to identify abuse, and mandatory reporting to police.

Cardinal Reinhard Marx admitted that Church leaders had often destroyed evidence or failed to document abuse. A Nigerian nun, Sister Veronica Openibo, strongly criticized the Church for silence and denial:

A Lasting Legacy

Pope Francis may not have returned to Uganda after 2015, but his words and actions still echo. From calling out injustice to walking with the poor, his humble and brave leadership changed hearts.

As millions across the world—and especially in Uganda—mourn his passing, they remember him not just as a pope, but as a true servant of the people. His life was a reminder to live with faith, compassion, and courage, even in difficult times.