Priestly Life and Achievements of Emeritus Archbishop Paul K Bakyenga

Emeritus Archbishop Paul K Bakyenga dedicated his life to a distinguished career in the clergy, serving as a priest for 52 years and as a bishop for 34 years. He was ordained a priest on July 11th, 1971, and later appointed Chaplain of Ntare Secondary School. Bakyenga studied at the Gregorian University in Rome and received a Licentiate Degree in Sacred Scripture.

Returning to Uganda, he served as Chancellor and Pastoral Coordinator for Mbarara Diocese before becoming a lecturer and later Rector at the National Seminary Ggaba. In 1989, he was ordained the Co-adjutor Bishop of Mbarara Diocese and later became the Bishop in 1991. In 1999, he was appointed the first Archbishop of Mbarara.

As Archbishop, Bakyenga held leadership positions including Chairman of the Association of Member Episcopal Conferences of Eastern Africa (AMECEA) and the Uganda Episcopal Conference. He also served as Chancellor of Uganda Martyrs University Nkozi and Catholic University of Eastern Africa. He was actively involved in various commissions and organizations within the Church.

Known for his compassion, Bakyenga established the Holy Innocents Children’s Hospital in 2009, providing medical care to children. He also initiated Radio Maria Mbarara, a Christian radio station, and founded the University of St. Joseph’s Mbarara.

Emeritus Archbishop Paul K Bakyenga retired on April 25th, 2020, after reaching the canonical retirement age. He was succeeded by His Grace Lambert Bainomugisha as the second Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Mbarara.

May his soul rest in peace