news 1 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Kabale Diocese Gears Up for Bishop-elect Gubazire's Ordination
Preparations are underway in Kabale for the episcopal ordination and installation of Monsignor Bonaventure Bosco Gubazire as the fifth bishop of the diocese. The ceremony is scheduled for October 3rd. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kabale-diocese-set-for-ordination-of-bishop-elect-gubazire-5616350
The Catholic faithful in Kabale Diocese are preparing for a significant event: the ordination and installation of Monsignor Bonaventure Bosco Gubazire as their new bishop. The ceremony is slated to take place on October 3rd at the St Ignatius University grounds in Kabale town. Monsignor Gubazire, who belongs to the Missionaries of Africa, was appointed to lead the diocese following the retirement of Bishop Callistus Rubaramira, who served for 23 years.
Preparations are reportedly in their final stages, with various subcommittees working to ensure a smooth and memorable occasion. Organizers anticipate a large turnout, with an estimated 20,000 people expected to attend the event. President Yoweri Museveni has been invited as the chief guest for the ceremony.
The ordination will also serve as an opportunity to honor the contributions of the outgoing Bishop Rubaramira. During his tenure, he is credited with establishing financial sustainability programs, including the Bishop’s Annual Appeal Fund, which supported the construction of income-generating commercial buildings. He also played a key role in the establishment of St Ignatius University and Radio Maria Kabale, alongside other developmental projects.
Furthermore, Bishop Rubaramira is remembered for expanding the diocese’s reach by increasing the number of parishes from 28 to 43, bringing church services closer to parishioners. He also oversaw the ordination of over 200 priests, renovated the Rushoroza Cathedral, and strengthened small Christian communities.
Monsignor Gubazire will be the fifth bishop of Kabale Diocese since its inception in 1966. He succeeds a line of bishops that includes Gervasius Placidus Nkalanga, Barnabas R. Halem’Imana, Robert Mary Gay, and Callistus Rubaramira. The diocese serves six districts in southwestern Uganda: Kabale, Kisoro, Rubanda, Rukiga, Rukungiri, and Kanungu.