Mbarara Archdiocese mourns 'humble servant' Fr Mubangizi

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The Mbarara Archdiocese is mourning the death of Father Agapitus Mubangizi, who passed away suddenly at the age of 57.

According to the chancellor, Fr Mukasa Balikuddembe, Mubangizi had been residing at the Nyamitanga Administration House. He explained that the priest died at Rugarama Hospital in Kabale, where he had been rushed after falling seriously ill while visiting his home in Kitumba village.

Balikuddembe noted that Mubangizi had served as a curate in Bukinda and several other parishes across the Mbarara Archdiocese. At the time of his death, he was based at the Nyamitanga Administration House. The cause of death is yet to be determined pending medical tests.

Mubangizi will be laid to rest at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Cathedral today, Tuesday, April 15, following a requiem Mass at the priests’ cemetery.

Fr Charles Mutabaruka, the media relations officer, shared heartfelt memories of his colleague:

“We were ordained together on August 15, 1999, at Nyamitanga Cathedral by the late Archbishop Paul Bakyenga. What I knew was that his home parish was Rushoroza in Kabale Diocese, but he was ordained under Mbarara Archdiocese. I can’t recall his parents’ names.”

He added: “What I knew about the late Fr Mubangizi was that he was a man who loved apostolate. He cared for the sick and consistently visited them throughout his life.”

Mutabaruka also said Mubangizi was dedicated to visiting sub-parishes and made many personal sacrifices to serve others. “We knew he was a joyful man who loved people; children and young people in particular. He used to organise conventions for people of all ages.”

Mubangizi also loved manual work, particularly flower planting and agriculture. “I remember when the Government gave out tea seeds, he went ahead and established a tea estate plantation.”

Gervase Ndyanabo, the head of laity and Deputy CEO of Vision Group, also paid tribute. He said Fr Mubangizi had served in a few parishes, including Rugazi Parish in Mbarara Archdiocese, as a curate. 

“He always ensured people received pastoral care. Whenever someone lost a loved one, he was with them. He truly loved people and was always present.”

Ndyanabo described him as “a very quiet priest and down-to-earth.”