This week, Uganda will be represented at the highest level as Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among leads a distinguished delegation to Vatican City for the funeral of the late Pope Francis.
The Speaker, who shared a deeply personal bond with the Pontiff, will stand in solidarity with global mourners bidding farewell to a spiritual icon whose influence reached far beyond the Catholic Church.
Among’s connection with Pope Francis stretches back years. During a private visit while expecting her twins, she had the rare opportunity to meet the Pope, who offered prayers for her safe delivery. That moment, captured in a viral video, touched hearts around the world. Following the birth of her children, she returned to the Vatican, where the Pope lovingly blessed the twins—an experience she has described as profoundly moving and sacred.
Pope Francis, the 266th head of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away on Easter Monday, April 21. His transformative papacy, which began in 2013, was hallmarked by a tireless commitment to justice, compassion, and peace. He championed the cause of the poor, sought unity among faiths, and pushed for meaningful reforms within the Church.
Now lying in state at St. Peter’s Basilica, his body continues to draw thousands of pilgrims and mourners. The funeral Mass is scheduled for Saturday, April 26 at 10:00 AM and will be led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Dean of the College of Cardinals.
Uganda joins the global community in honoring Pope Francis, a leader whose legacy of humility and humanity will continue to inspire generations.
