The Vatican has announced the appointment of His Grace Archbishop Emmanuel Obbo, Archbishop of Tororo, as the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Jinja, following the death of Rt. Rev. Charles Martin Wamika, who passed away on October 22, 2025.
According to an official communication released from the Apostolic Nunciature in Kampala, Pope Leo XIV made the appointment on Tuesday, October 29, 2025, entrusting Archbishop Obbo with the responsibility of temporarily governing the Diocese of Jinja until a new bishop is canonically appointed.
“In his apostolic wisdom and pastoral concern, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV has appointed His Grace Emmanuel Obbo, Archbishop of Tororo, as Apostolic Administrator of Jinja Diocese, effective immediately,” the statement reads in part.
The late Bishop Wamika, who had shepherded the Diocese of Jinja since 2010, was laid to rest on October 28, 2025, at Rubaga Cathedral in Kampala in a solemn ceremony attended by hundreds of faithful, clergy, and dignitaries from across the country.
His passing left a deep void in the diocese, which he had faithfully served for 15 years.
Archbishop Emmanuel Obbo, a seasoned prelate who also served as the Bishop of Soroti Catholic Diocese before being elevated to Archbishop is known for his humility, wisdom, and firm leadership, will now oversee the pastoral and administrative affairs of Jinja Diocese.
As Apostolic Administrator, his role will be to maintain stability, guide the clergy and faithful, and ensure smooth coordination of all diocesan activities while the Holy See undertakes the process of appointing a new bishop.
The Diocese of Jinja, which covers several districts in Busoga sub-region, has long been a cornerstone of Catholic evangelization and social development in eastern Uganda.
May the soul of Bishop Charles Martin Wamika rest in eternal peace.
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