Catholic Church in Uganda celebrates cardinal Emmanuel Wamala at 99

28 December 2025, 1:00 pm

By Ronald ssemagonja

The Catholic Church in Uganda has celebrated the life and legacy of Cardinal Emmanuel Wamala, marking both his continued service to the Church and the additional celebrations of his 99th birthday.

Cardinal Wamala, who was created a Cardinal in 1994 during the year of the Rwanda genocide, previously served as the Archbishop of Kampala. According to the Catholic Church in Uganda, his obedience to God and dedication to the Church remain unmatched.

Born on December 15, 1926, to Cosma Kyamera and Theresa Nnamayanja, a devout Catholic couple blessed with ten children, Cardinal Wamala has lived a life deeply rooted in faith and service. It was against this background that the Church joined the Universal Church yesterday at his residence in Nsambya, Kampala, to celebrate the devoted Archbishop Emeritus.

The celebration was marked by prayer, thanksgiving and reflection on a life wholly dedicated to God and His people. A special highlight was a message from His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, which was read during the event. In his message, the Holy Father assured Cardinal Wamala of his prayers and imparted an Apostolic Blessing, asking God to grant him peace, strengthen him with grace and sustain him in the joy of faith.

The annual celebration, held every 27th December, brought together priests, religious sisters, caregivers, family members and grandchildren. The event was organized under the leadership of Cardinal Wamala’s Chief Grandson, Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, the Minister of State for Higher Education. He thanked God for the gift of the Cardinal’s long life and described him as a strong pillar of the Catholic Church worldwide.

Messages of goodwill were received from across the Church, the State and the Buganda Kingdom. President Yoweri Museveni, the Vice President and several government ministers sent congratulatory messages. The Archbishop of Kampala, His Grace Paul Ssemogerere, also sent blessings and gifts, including the priestly attire worn by Cardinal Wamala during the celebration.

In recognition of his contribution to faith and society, His Majesty the Kabaka of Buganda sent gifts and congratulatory cards, while the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, conveyed warm messages honouring the Cardinal’s service and enduring legacy.

Cardinal Emmanuel Wamala has served the Church with distinction for decades. He has been a Cardinal for over 31 years and a priest for more than six decades, making him one of Uganda’s most respected and senior Church leaders. Even at 99, he remains a living witness to the Gospel and a symbol of humility, unity and faithful service.

In his message, Cardinal Wamala thanked God for the gift of life and prayed for blessings upon Uganda.