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Ugandan Gertrude Nabukeera's historic appointment as the first ever papal dame (female papal knight) from Masaka diocese has been welcomed with excitement and optimism in equal measure.

She was presented to the faithful during a thanksgiving and introduction Mass at Bumangi Catholic Parish in Kalangala district on Thursday.

Better known as Maama Sili, Nabukeera is an influential fisherwoman based at the Nakatiba landing site.

Wearing the ceremonial uniform worn by papal knights and dames, she was introduced to the congregation alongside Yozeefu Luswata from Mateete parish and Dick Richard Muwanga from Nkoni parish — the latter two appointed knights.

Considered 'soldiers of the pope', these men and women are honoray squads of the pontiff. They don't train in VIP protection and neither are they armed.

The pope appoints them in recognition of their work rendered to the church.

The late Kampala Archbishop, Dr Cyprian Kizito Lwanga, once explained how it works. He said that if one is appointed while working in the church, one becomes a monsignor. A person who is not working in the church becomes a dame or knight.

The role is given to appreciate the loyalty and exemplary services of an appointee to the church.

Uganda's former ambassador to the Vatican, Bernadette Olowo, was the first Ugandan to be appointed a dame — in 1970.

Luswata and Muwanga were recommended by Bishop Severus Jjumba of Masaka diocese for appointment as papal knights. Nabukeera's name was also presented for the role of dame.

During Thursday's Mass, Masaka diocese vicar Derrick Ssengooba urged the three new appointees to light up the way for believers in their respective parishes as the pope's ambassadors at parish level.

“The pope’s appointments is an example that he appreciates believers’ good deeds towards the Catholic believers," he said.

On her part, Nabukeera said her new role, which is understood not to come with a monetary gain, will not stop her from continuing the work she has been doing.

She owns as many as 80 fishing boats at Nakatiba landing site and also has a fish table where catches are loaded direct into transporting vehicles. All these are under her management.

Nabukeera employs at least 500 fishermen at the landing site, where she has worked for two decades.

She constructed a Catholic church at the landing site and also spearheaded the renovation works of Bumang Catholic Church.

She has also donated boats for church missions on islands.

The papal dame said she had never dreamt of being one and that it is an overwhelming feeling for her.

Nonetheless, it will not "overshadow my responsibilities in my family, church and community", according to Nabukeera, a 2018 Nalubaale medal recipient for her exceptional work in the fishing industry.

Luke Mukasa, a member from her family, said the appointment is the beginning of blessings for their children and grandchildren.

Believers during the mass. (Photo by Samuel Nkuba)

'Extremely happy'

It had been decades since Masaka Diocese last had papal appointments.

The last knights — now all deceased — were Dr Sebastian Byekwaso Kyewalyanga from Kako parish, Bernado Kakinda from Kiseera Kyamaganda parish, Benedicto Ssengooba Lutakome from Bulegeya Kabwooko parish, Petero Lutagoobwa from Kyogo Nkoni parish and Bernado Bukesa from Kiruhura Matale parish.

The excitement among the parishioners of Bumangi over the lastest appointments has been palpable.

“I never knew that even the pope can select a common person, and a woman at that, from our community to be a dame. We we are extremely happy!" said an overjoyed Gerald Nakyeyune Ssekitende.

Emerida Muwonge, who is part of the Masaka diocese women leadership, applauded Bishop Jjumba for recommending their fellow woman for this role.

“This is a good example that women can also hold more responsibilities in their capacity. This is a good example to young girls and youth in church and instills a heart of loving their religion," she said.

Others are looking at the tourism potential.

Rajab Ssemakula, the Kalangala district chairperson, is optimistic that the tourism sector will be boosted by Nabukeera's newfound status as a papal ambassador from the islands.

He is hopeful that many people will want to engage with Nabukeera at a national and international level.