In a landmark audience at the Vatican, Speaker of the Ugandan Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among Annet, met with Pope Francis, where discussions highlighted Uganda’s commendable role in providing refuge to migrants and its efforts to foster national unity through strong spiritual values and progressive policies.
The Speaker of the Ugandan Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among Annet, had a private audience with His Holiness Pope Francis at the Vatican. This historic meeting not only underscored the deepening ties between Uganda and the Vatican but also shone a spotlight on Uganda’s humanitarian efforts and spiritual resilience.
During the 30-minute meeting, Pope Francis expressed profound admiration for Uganda’s progressive approach to handling refugees and migrants. He praised Uganda’s welcoming policies and the nation’s ability to maintain social harmony despite the influx of people from various countries.
The Pope highlighted Uganda as a beacon of hope, demonstrating how a country can embrace humanitarian principles while maintaining strong national unity.
Speaker Among, who conveyed greetings from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the Ugandan Parliament, emphasized the nation’s commitment to upholding these values. She noted President Museveni’s vision of transforming Uganda into a self-sustaining, industrial modern economy, driven by innovation and inclusivity.
The Speaker further urged the Vatican to continue its support for Uganda’s humanitarian efforts, particularly in aiding refugees and promoting peace and stability in the region.
Pope Francis’s commendation comes at a time when Uganda is under international scrutiny for its internal policies. Yet, his recognition of Uganda’s role in providing sanctuary to the displaced offers a fresh perspective on the country’s global image, focusing on its compassion and dedication to humanitarian causes.
Moreover, Speaker Among took the opportunity to extend an invitation to Pope Francis to visit Uganda, a gesture that signifies the growing relationship between the Vatican and Uganda, potentially opening new avenues for cooperation in areas of humanitarian aid and spiritual growth.
Shortly after the audience with Pope Francis, news broke in Uganda that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had withdrawn charges of inciting violence against Buhweju MP Francis Mwijukye. This development has been seen by some as a moment of divine justice, resonating with Speaker Among’s remarks about Uganda serving a “just and living God.”
The meeting at the Vatican serves as a reminder of the spiritual bonds that tie Uganda to the broader global community, illustrating a country that, despite its challenges, continues to uphold principles of hospitality, faith, and justice.
