By Mboowa Nathan
The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda has mourned the passing of retired Bishop of Namirembe, Bishop Samuel Balagadde Ssekadde. Speaking on the occasion, Archbishop Kaziimba Mugalu said, “Bishop Ssekadde was a visionary leader with many ideas for building up the Church. He will be greatly missed as a teacher and a dedicated servant to the Church of God.”
The Church of Uganda and Namirembe Diocese are mourning the loss of Bishop Emeritus Samuel Balagadde Ssekadde, who passed away this evening at the age of 79 at Kisubi Hospital. HE served with unwavering dedication and deep spiritual commitment, leaving an indelible mark on the church and the community he faithfully led.
Born on September 20, 1941, Bishop Ssekadde grew up in a devout Christian family in the Buganda region. He attended Mengo Primary School and Kings College Budo before pursuing theological studies at Bishop Tucker Theological College in Mukono, now Uganda Christian University (UCU). Ordained as a priest in 1967, he embarked on a ministry marked by humility and dedication to serving God and the people of Uganda.
Throughout his early ministry, Bishop Ssekadde served in various parishes across the Namirembe Diocese, demonstrating a passion for community outreach and spiritual growth. He held several key leadership roles, including:
It is remembered that after completing his theological studies, Bishop Ssekadde was sent to Ndwaddemutwe Parish, where he began his ministry and served faithfully until his passing.
Curate of St Paul’s Cathedral Namirembe
Vicar of St. Luke’s Church, Kibuye, where he strengthened church programs and fostered community development
Bible translator with the Bible Society
Principal of Uganda Seminary at Namugongo Martyrs
Diocesan Secretary of Namirembe Diocese
In 1994, Bishop Ssekadde was consecrated as the Bishop of Namirembe Diocese, succeeding Bishop Misaeri Kitemaggwa Kauma, Bishop Ssekadde led the diocese with a focus on education, health, and community empowerment. Under his leadership:
Schools within the diocese were strengthened
Namirembe Hospital was expanded
Significant support was given to Uganda Christian University
Bishop Ssekadde’s vision was to build a church that addressed both the spiritual and social needs of the people. He retired in 2009, passing on the leadership to Bishop Wilberforce Kityo Luwalira. Even in retirement, he remained a mentor to younger clergy, offering wisdom and guidance to the Church of Uganda. Known for his humility, he was often invited to speak, always advocating for unity, peace, and faithfulness to God’s calling.
His legacy is that of a servant-leader who deeply believed in the transformative power of faith and community. He will be remembered for his emphasis on prayer, education, and holistic development. His influence will continue to shape the diocese and the Church of Uganda for many years to come.
