By Aggrey Twesigye
The Bishop of Ankole Diocese, Sheldon Fred Mwesigwa, has paid glowing tribute to the late Janani Luwum, describing him as a visionary church leader and a symbol of moral courage whose legacy continues to inspire Christians and the nation at large.
Bishop Mwesigwa made the remarks on Monday during Archbishop Janani Luwum Day celebrations held at the East Africa Revival Museum grounds in Ruharo. He credited Luwum for championing church development and playing a key role in the construction of Church House, one of the flagship projects of the Church of Uganda.
He praised the fallen prelate for his unwavering commitment to spiritual renewal, unity, and national transformation, urging Christians to remain steadfast in their faith and to emulate Luwum’s courage, humility, and servant leadership.
Born in Wii-Gweng Village, Mucwini Sub-county in Kitgum District, Archbishop Luwum served as Archbishop of the Province of Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Boga-Zaire from 1974 until February 16, 1977. During his tenure, he led the Anglican province covering Burundi, eastern Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda.
Luwum was accused of treason and killed in 1977 under the regime of Idi Amin after he openly condemned human rights abuses and defended innocent citizens. In recognition of his sacrifice, the Government of Uganda declared February 16 a public holiday to commemorate his life and legacy.
Archbishop Janani Jakaliya Luwum was born in 1922 in Mucwini Sub-county, Kitgum District, in the Acholi sub-region. He trained as a teacher at Boroboro Teacher Training College, converted to Christianity in 1948, and was ordained a priest in 1956. He later served as Bishop of Northern Uganda from 1969 before his elevation to Archbishop in 1974.
Meanwhile, national celebrations marking the 49th anniversary of Janani Luwum are ongoing in Wii-Gweng, Mucwini Sub-county, Kitgum District, with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni joining believers to honor the Archbishop’s enduring legacy of faith, justice, and national unity.
