Msgr Magembe laid to rest, believers called to embrace love

Thousands of mourners from across Uganda gathered today, May 12, at Kisubi Minor Seminary along Entebbe Road in Wakiso district, to bid farewell to Msgr Expedito Magembe — a beloved spiritual father and beacon of hope — in an emotional send-off ceremony marked by deep faith, dignity and heartfelt tribute.

The funeral Mass was presided over by Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere of Kampala Archdiocese and concelebrated by more than 300 priests. Among the senior clergy present were Bishop Antony Zziwa of Kiyinda-Mityana Diocese, Bishop Lawrence Mukasa of Kasana-Luweero, Bishop Christopher Kakooza of Lugazi, Bishop Serverus Jjumba of Masaka, and Uganda’s Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Augustine Kasujja.

Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere of Kampala Archdiocese presided over the funeral Mass. (All photos by Ponsiano Nsimbi)

President Yoweri Museveni, who shared a close personal relationship with Msgr Magembe, was represented by the works and transport minister, Gen. Katumba Wamala.

Other high-profile mourners included former Vice President Dr Gilbert Baalibaseka Bukenya, Chevalier Dr Emmanuel Katongole, Fred Omach, and Lady Emily Kitto Mwaka, head of the laity in Kampala Archdiocese.

Amid the liturgical grandeur and public mourning, a more personal and reflective tribute came from Dr Andrew Ssekitoleko, executive director of Nsambya Hospital, where Msgr Magembe spent his final days.

“Msgr Magembe was admitted to Nsambya Hospital in January 2025 in a fragile condition,” Dr Ssekitoleko recalled. “He had difficulty breathing, severe abdominal pain, poor appetite, and confusion. Scans revealed a large tumour in his left kidney. Further investigation showed the cancer had spread to his lungs and brain.”

He explained that by the time of admission, curative options were no longer possible. “Our focus shifted to palliative care — relieving pain, preserving dignity, and ensuring comfort,” he said.

But what unfolded at the hospital, he added, was far more than medical care. “Even in pain, Msgr Magembe was surrounded by something extraordinary — constant prayer, gentle hymns, and a steady stream of visitors who came not to mourn but to be near him. Some of our nurses, initially sceptical of religious devotion, found themselves joining in prayer,” he shared.

“For our staff, it was a reminder that healing is not always physical. Msgr Magembe showed us that true care touches the body, mind, and soul.”

Before becoming a patient, Msgr Magembe had already become renowned for his healing ministry at Mount Zion Prayer Centre, Bukalango. Dr Ssekitoleko recalled a case that challenged the limits of medical science.

“One of my patients, Harriet, diagnosed with a brain tumour, was scheduled for surgery. After visiting Bukalango, she returned claiming to be healed. When we re-examined her, the tumour was gone. We had no medical explanation,” he said.

“Science demands evidence, but stories like these make you realise faith has a role even in hospitals. It brings strength, resilience — and sometimes, the unexplainable.”

When Msgr Magembe’s condition deteriorated, he was briefly airlifted to Aga Khan Hospital for evaluation. Doctors there confirmed the diagnosis and recommended that he return home for end-of-life care. “Even then, he remained calm and peaceful,” Dr Ssekitoleko said.

In his message delivered by Gen. Katumba, President Museveni praised Msgr Magembe for his tireless service to the Church, the country, and the youth of Uganda.

“Mama Janet and I extend our condolences to the Catholic Church and to all Ugandans. I have lost a true friend and a brother who always prayed for me, my family, and our country,” read the President’s message.

He added that Msgr Magembe’s legacy lay not only in the churches he built but also in the moral and spiritual guidance he gave to the youth. “I thank him for teaching young people how to pray and to love God and the Church.”

The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, through his representative Kiberu Charles Kisirinza, also paid tribute. “He was a dear friend to the Kabaka and often prayed for the Kingdom. His hymns and messages touched countless lives. We thank God for the gift of his life.”

Rev. Fr James Sebayiga, representing the Bukalango community, said many believers — both Catholic and non-Catholic — were blessed through Msgr Magembe’s spiritual gifts, hymns and deliverance ministry.

“Msgr Magembe was full of love. That is why we are all here today. We must continue to carry forward that love. He brought tremendous development to Bukalango,” he said, also thanking Nsambya Hospital and the government for their support.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Kayemba Bikwalira Gyaviira expressed gratitude to the Church for guiding Msgr Magembe throughout his priestly journey and to the President for supporting him during his final days.

“He often said he loved the president and considered him a dear friend. We thank President Museveni and all those who stood by him,” he said.

He also praised the Bukalango Christian community for the unwavering love they showed the late Msgr Magembe — a love he deeply felt until the end.