The Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, had the distinguished honor of meeting His Holiness Pope Francis during a private audience at the Vatican on August 24th, 2024. The meeting, which lasted approximately 30 minutes, provided an opportunity for both leaders to discuss various issues of mutual interest.
During the audience, Pope Francis expressed his admiration for Uganda’s humanitarian approach, particularly the country’s commitment to welcoming migrants and refugees from various nations. He commended Uganda’s progressive laws and policies that offer sanctuary to those in need, highlighting the country’s unique role in promoting peace and stability in the region.
Speaker Among conveyed heartfelt greetings from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the Ugandan Parliament, and the people of Uganda. She emphasized the deep spiritual values and warm-hearted nature of Ugandans, which have been instrumental in maintaining national unity. Among also took the opportunity to extend an invitation to Pope Francis to visit Uganda once again, following his last visit in 2015.
“I want to thank you and the Church for always praying for us, and I extend an invitation for you to visit Uganda again,” Speaker Among said during the meeting.
Pope Francis, in turn, extended his regards to President Museveni through Speaker Among, acknowledging the President’s leadership in fostering peace and stability in Uganda. He assured her of his continued prayers for the nation and its people.
Following her meeting with Pope Francis, Speaker Among held further discussions with His Eminence Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State. The talks focused on exploring avenues for strengthening the already strong bilateral relations between Uganda and the Vatican. Over the years, these relations have been marked by mutual respect and cooperation.
Speaker Among’s visit to the Vatican came as a result of a special invitation from the Holy See, underscoring Uganda’s positive diplomatic relations on the global stage. This meeting marks the fifth time Speaker Among has been received by Pope Francis for a private audience, a testament to the deepening relationship between Uganda and the Vatican.
In their previous meetings, Pope Francis has praised Speaker Among for her exemplary leadership in guiding the Ugandan Parliament, offering his prayers and support for her continued role in leading the legislative body.
