19/02/2026
Ash Wednesday: Bishop Francis Aquirinus Kibira has urged leaders to turn foreign travel into tangible progress for their communities, warning against what he described as a culture of storytelling without results. Preaching during Ash Wednesday Mass at the Uganda Parliamentary Catholic Chaplaincy in Kampala, the bishop challenged Members of Parliament and other congregants to ensure that every trip abroad translates into measurable development back home.
Quoting a Luganda proverb-like phrase, Bishop Kibira said, “Kugenda kulaba, okudda kukola sso si kunyumya,” loosely translated as “You travel to see, you return to work, not to entertain with stories.” He emphasized that leaders who visit countries such as the United States and Germany must bring back practical ideas and innovations. “As a Honorable Member of Parliament or leader at any level, when you travel to the USA, Germany or other developed countries, we expect you to add something to us and our nation,” he said.
The bishop expressed concern that many leaders often return with narratives of what they explored and enjoyed abroad rather than concrete plans for implementation. “The trend should change from telling stories about what we enjoyed in the States to what we have learnt and can implement in our country, home district and village to bring about change,” he noted. In his characteristic firm tone, he added, “In my own style, never say okudda kunyumya. It’s okudda kukola. Stop it. Which stories are you telling us yet you haven’t improved anything among your people?”
He reminded the faithful that leadership is a sacred trust that demands accountability and service. According to Bishop Kibira, exposure to global best practices should inspire reforms in governance, service delivery, and community transformation. He called on legislators to embrace a results-oriented mindset, particularly during the Lenten season, which he described as a time for reflection, repentance, and renewed commitment to serving the common good.
Beyond delivering his Ash Wednesday message, Bishop Kibira also used the occasion to mobilize spiritual and material support ahead of the 2026 Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations. He revealed that the Diocese of Kasese, which he leads, will animate the national celebrations on June 3, 2026, at the shrine of the Uganda Martyrs Day in Namugongo. The pastoral visit, he said, was part of broader preparations to rally the faithful and stakeholders to actively participate in organizing the landmark event.