Lubaga cathedral celebrates 100 years with major renovation

21 October 2025, 10:24 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

In preparation for the centenary celebrations of Lubaga Cathedral in Kampala District, the top leadership of the Catholic Church, led by The Most Rev. Paul Ssemogerere and under the guidance of the Pope, initiated a major renovation of the cathedral this year. This milestone marks a significant chapter in the church’s history, which dates back to around 1891, when Kabaka Mwanga of Buganda donated land to the church — a gift received on behalf of the Catholic community by Bishop Joseph Hirth. The cathedral was later sanctified in 1925.

Against this historical backdrop, several individuals, including leaders from within and outside Uganda, have come forward to support the renovation efforts, ensuring that by the centenary celebrations, the sanctuary shines more beautifully than ever.

Mr Kizito Joseph, Headteacher of Sheehan Standard Day and Boarding Primary School in Rubaga Division, one of the institutions contributing to the project, expressed gratitude to God for enabling the church to reach this milestone. Speaking to journalists yesterday, he said he was optimistic that this is just the beginning of even greater achievements.

“I congratulate Lubaga Cathedral for reaching one hundred years. It is no small feat. I thank Bishop Paul Ssemogerere for the great work he does in transforming lives through teaching the word of God. As a school, we contributed towards the renovation of the church, and we believe that by Sunday, we shall have cleared our pledge in full,” he said.

“I therefore urge everyone to join in and also attend the mega celebration on Sunday. This church has been invaluable to us as a school, and our children — especially the Catholics — have gained spiritual guidance, among other benefits,” he added.

Mr Kizito also raised concerns about how the Ministry of Education and Sports formulates policies aimed at improving the education sector while sidelining key stakeholders. He noted that the ministry is in the final stages of drafting a new policy on school governance, yet schools have not been adequately consulted.

“I think the government should invite us when drafting policies because we are the key stakeholders. We deserve a chance to contribute before such policies are implemented, as we are the ones expected to enforce them,” he said.

Several other groups and individuals have also contributed towards the renovation and preparations. These include the Buganda Youth Council, led by Chairperson Derrick Kavuma, which donated USh 1 million; the Democratic Party, led by President Hon. Norbert Mao, which contributed USh 5 million; and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), represented by a Brigadier, which offered USh 20 million, among others.

All contributions were warmly received by Bishop Ssemogerere, who expressed his appreciation to the donors and prayed for them, encouraging others to join this noble cause.

The theme for this year’s celebration is:

“The temple of the Lord is holy, and that temple is me.”