The Roman Catholic Diocese of Jinja is steeped in sorrow following the announcement of the passing of its beloved shepherd, Rt. Rev. Charles Martin Wamika, the Bishop Ordinary of the Diocese. Bishop Wamika passed, Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at approximately 4:00 PM (16:00hrs), at the age of 72.
The somber news was conveyed through an official announcement from the Bishop’s Office, signed by Fr. Gerald Muto, the Diocesan Chancellor. The announcement, addressed to the clergy, religious men and women, and the lay faithful in and outside the Diocese of Jinja, expressed “deep sorrow and Christian hope in the resurrection.”
“It is with deep sorrow and Christian hope in the resurrection that the Diocese of Jinja announces the passing on of our beloved shepherd, Rt. Rev. Charles Martin Wamika, Bishop of Jinja,” the statement read.
Bishop Wamika, born on August 12, 1953, dedicated his life to the service of the Church, leaving a significant legacy across two dioceses in Uganda. His episcopal journey began on October 18, 1993, when he was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Tororo by Pope John Paul II. He was consecrated a bishop in Tororo on February 19, 1994, concurrently serving as the Titular Bishop of Tacapae during his time as auxiliary.
His leadership in the Diocese of Jinja commenced on March 2, 2010, following his transfer by Pope Benedict XVI. He succeeded Bishop Joseph Bernard Louis Willigers as the local ordinary, a role he fulfilled with unwavering dedication for over 15 years until his passing.
The Diocese has called upon all clergy, religious, and the faithful to keep Bishop Wamika in their prayers. Details regarding the funeral program will be communicated at a later date.
Bishop Wamika’s passing marks a profound loss for the Catholic Church in Uganda, particularly for the faithful of the Jinja Diocese whom he served with profound commitment and spiritual guidance.
