Africa-Press – Uganda. The State Minister for Kampala Capital City Authority, Fred Kyofatogabye, has joined thousands of mourners across the globe in paying tribute to His Holiness Pope Francis, who passed away peacefully on Easter Monday.
The minister, along with other dignitaries and religious leaders, attended a solemn requiem Mass at Lubaga Cathedral in Kampala to honor the late pontiff’s legacy of peace, humility, and unwavering service to humanity.
Describing Pope Francis as a beacon of hope and a tireless advocate for the marginalised, Kyofatogabye praised the pontiff’s commitment to living a life of simplicity and integrity.
“Pope Francis was more than a spiritual leader,” Kyofatogabye said. “He was a true servant of humanity—a champion of peace, a voice for the voiceless, and an embodiment of humility and selflessness. The world has lost a moral compass, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations.”
The minister used the moment to issue a heartfelt call for peace in the region, particularly addressing the government and armed factions in South Sudan.
In a passionate appeal, he urged all parties to honor the memory of Pope Francis by ceasing hostilities and returning to the path of reconciliation.
“We should emulate his actions by striving to make our nations icons of peace,” Kyofatogabye stated. “I appeal to our brothers and sisters in South Sudan to give His Holiness a befitting send-off by revisiting the peace agreements they have signed and working diligently to restore harmony in their country.
A peaceful South Sudan is not only a tribute to the Pope’s legacy—it is essential for regional stability, trade, and shared prosperity.”
Highlighting the late Pope’s historic engagement with South Sudanese leaders during his papacy—including the unprecedented act of kneeling to kiss the feet of rival leaders as a plea for peace—Kyofatogabye emphasised the spiritual and symbolic importance of Pope Francis’s message to the region.
As the global Catholic community prepares for the conclave to elect the next Pope, the Minister concluded his address with a prayer for divine guidance.
“May the Holy Spirit guide the College of Cardinals as they embark on the sacred responsibility of choosing a new spiritual leader. May this process be peaceful, inspired, and rooted in the values that Pope Francis so nobly upheld.”
The passing of Pope Francis has prompted an outpouring of grief from leaders worldwide, underscoring his influential role in global affairs beyond the confines of the Vatican.
As Uganda joins the international community in mourning, voices like that of Kyofatogabye echo a collective yearning—not only for spiritual solace but for actionable peace and unity in the wake of a profound loss.
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