President Museveni meets family of the late Rev. Fr. Paolino Tomaino

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today met the family of the late Rev. Fr. Paolino Tomaino at State House, Entebbe.

Rev. Fr. Tomaino, 87, was one of the longest-serving Comboni Missionary Priests and philanthropists in the Mbarara Ecclesiastical Province. He passed away on Sunday, March 3, 2024, in Milan, Italy.

The Italian-born Priest of the congregation of the Comboni Missionaries is celebrated for his contributions to transforming the Catholic faith, education, and health sectors during his extensive service in the Mbarara Archdiocese. He established projects like Bishop Comboni College – Kambuga, Kyeibuza, and Lamezia Health centres, among others.

During the meeting, President Museveni mentioned that while he did not know Fr. Tomaino personally, he was aware of his impactful work as a man of God.

“I have been acquainted with the works of Catholic priests across Uganda for a long time,” the President stated. “When Raphael Magyezi (Minister for Local Government) informed me about Fr. Tomaino’s illness, I directed support for his treatment. After his passing, we honored his wish to be buried here.”

President Museveni also expressed gratitude to Fr. Tomaino’s family for their support during his lifetime and for allowing him to be laid to rest in Uganda.

“I want to thank Fr. Tomaino’s family for entrusting him to Africa and for supporting him during his time here. The churches and schools he built received support from his family. Now, we appreciate their decision to have him buried here,” President Museveni affirmed.

The President encouraged his guests to utilize their social connections to attract Italian businesses to invest in Uganda.

“Encouraging Italian companies to invest here will create jobs, increase government revenue, and boost foreign exchange. Italy can significantly contribute to Africa’s transformation with its capital and entrepreneurship,” he emphasized.

President Museveni also pledged to honor Fr. Tomaino with a Posthumous medal during this year’s Heroes Day to recognize his role in Uganda’s development.

Regarding Fr. Tomaino’s educational efforts, President Museveni proposed completing Sedes Serpientie Kanoni Girls School in Kyamuhunga, Bushenyi District, in Father Tomaino’s memory, highlighting his lasting impact on education in Uganda.

Rev. Fr. Tomaino’s family, led by his sister Maria Luisa, expressed gratitude to President Museveni for Uganda’s support towards the late Priest.

“On behalf of our extended family, I thank you for your care and support for Fr. Paulino Tomaino. We are grateful for the specialized treatment support he received. Although he passed away, we appreciate your compassion, Your Excellency,” Ms. Luisa said.

“We thank you for honoring his wish to be buried in Uganda and for facilitating 20 family members to accompany him. Fr. Tomaino answered his calling as a Seminarian at 25 years, dedicating his life to Africa’s service. He arrived in Uganda in 1965 and dedicated himself to uplifting others, especially children, the poor, and the vulnerable. Thanks to your leadership and government policies, he was able to flourish in his work,” she added.

“He has left as a fulfilled Priest and servant of God, giving us peace. Your grant of dual citizenship, which he cherished deeply, enabled his impactful work to thrive.