The Catholic Church in Uganda is mourning the passing of Rt. Rev. Charles Martin Wamika, the Bishop of the Diocese of Jinja, whose death was announced on Wednesday 22nd October 2025 by the Diocesan Chancellor, Fr. Gerald Muto.
In an official statement, Fr. Muto expressed the diocese’s sorrow, describing Bishop Wamika as a devoted shepherd and a man of unwavering faith.
“It is with deep sorrow and Christian hope in the resurrection that the Diocese of Jinja announces the passing of our beloved shepherd, Rt. Rev. Charles Martin Wamika, Bishop of Jinja, who passed away today,” he said.
“The funeral program will be communicated in due course. We invite all the clergy, religious, and faithful to keep our fallen Bishop Wamika in your prayers,” he added.
Bishop Wamika made history as the first Ugandan to lead the Diocese of Jinja since its establishment under the Mill Hill Fathers in the late 1800s. He succeeded Bishop Joseph Willigers, a Dutch missionary who guided the diocese for over four decades before his retirement.
Under Bishop Wamika’s leadership, the Jinja Diocese experienced significant growth in evangelization, education, and social outreach programs, particularly in supporting youth, families, and the underprivileged.
Tributes have begun pouring in from clergy, faithful, and national leaders, many describing him as a humble servant of God whose life was dedicated to building faith and fostering unity within the Church.
His passing marks the end of an era for the Diocese of Jinja and the wider Catholic community in Uganda, which now mourns the loss of one of its most respected spiritual leaders. The Church has called on all faithful to continue praying for the repose of his soul and for the diocese during this period of mourning.
