Speaker Anita Among to Lead Ugandan Delegation to Vatican for Pope Francis Burial

Kampala, Uganda – April 23, 2025

The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, is set to lead a high-level Ugandan delegation to Vatican City for the burial of Pope Francis, who passed away earlier this week.

In an official statement released by the Office of the Speaker, Among expressed deep sorrow over the pontiff’s passing, describing him as a global icon of peace, compassion, and unity. “Pope Francis was a beacon of hope not just for Catholics, but for all humanity. Uganda mourns alongside the rest of the world,” the statement read.

The Ugandan delegation will include senior government officials, Members of Parliament, and representatives from the Uganda Episcopal Conference. The team is expected to travel later this week to attend the funeral, which is drawing global dignitaries and religious leaders from all corners of the world.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, served as the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church and was the first pontiff from the Americas. His papacy was marked by progressive reforms and a strong emphasis on social justice and interfaith dialogue.

Uganda, a predominantly Christian nation with a significant Catholic population, maintains close ties with the Vatican. Speaker Among’s leadership of the delegation underscores the country’s respect for the late pope and its commitment to global religious diplomacy.

Further details about the funeral arrangements and the Ugandan delegation’s itinerary will be released in due course.