Africa-Press – Uganda. The Catholic Church in Uganda has paid glowing tribute to Cardinal Emmanuel Wamala as he marked his 99th birthday, celebrating a lifetime defined by faith, humility and dedicated service to the Church and society.
Cardinal Wamala, who was created a Cardinal in 1994 at the height of the Rwanda genocide, previously served as Archbishop of Kampala and remains one of Uganda’s most respected Church leaders.
The Church described his obedience to God, humility and unwavering commitment to pastoral work as a gift not only to Uganda but to the universal Church.
Born on December 15, 1926, to Cosma Kyamera and Theresa Nnamayanja in a devout Catholic family of ten children, Cardinal Wamala’s life has been shaped by deep faith and selfless devotion.
These virtues were celebrated during an annual thanksgiving ceremony held at his residence in Nsambya, Kampala.
The gathering brought together priests, religious sisters, caregivers, family members and grandchildren for a day of prayer, gratitude and reflection.
The event was led by the Cardinal’s Chief Grandson, Dr John Chrysostom Muyingo, the Minister of State for Higher Education, who thanked God for sustaining the Cardinal through nearly a century of service.
“Cardinal Wamala has been a pillar of the Catholic Church, not only in Uganda but across the world,” Dr Muyingo said.
“His humility, integrity and unwavering faith have guided many of us. We thank God for the blessing of his long and fruitful life.”
A highlight of the celebration was a message from His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, which was read during the ceremony.
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.
Congratulatory messages also came from government, the Church and the Buganda Kingdom. President Museveni, the Vice President and several Cabinet ministers sent warm wishes.
The Archbishop of Kampala, His Grace Paul Ssemogerere, presented the Cardinal with new priestly vestments, which he wore during the celebration.
The Buganda Kingdom, which has long held Cardinal Wamala in high esteem, was represented through gifts and congratulatory cards from His Majesty the Kabaka.
The Katikkiro, Charles Peter Mayiga, also conveyed heartfelt messages recognising the Cardinal’s enduring influence.
Now a priest of more than 60 years and a Cardinal for over three decades, Cardinal Wamala remains one of the most senior and respected Church leaders in Uganda.
Even at 99, he is celebrated as a living witness to the Gospel, a symbol of unity and a model of faithful Christian service.
In a brief message during the celebration, the Cardinal expressed gratitude and offered prayers for the nation.
“I thank God for the gift of life and for sustaining me all these years,” Cardinal Wamala said. “May God continue to bless Uganda and keep our people in peace.”
The annual celebration, held every December 27, continues to provide an opportunity for the Church and the nation to honour a man whose life has profoundly shaped Uganda’s spiritual landscape.
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