Senior Reporter
President Yoweri Museveni has expressed admiration for the late Italian missionary, Rev. Fr. Paolino Tomaino, who passed away last week after dedicating over four decades to missionary work in Uganda. Museveni, represented by Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa at the burial ceremony held at Kyamuhunga Catholic parish, praised Fr. Tomaino for his efforts in combating alcohol abuse and instilling ethical values among Christians.
“Fr. Tomaino made significant contributions to the communities of Kambuga, Kyamuhunga, and Rusehere, where he established numerous churches, including Rushere. His advocacy against alcohol and substance abuse underscored his commitment to the well-being of the congregation and their families,” remarked President Museveni.
Highlighting Fr. Tomaino’s holistic approach to ministry, Museveni acknowledged the late clergyman’s emphasis on both spiritual and material welfare. “He was known for recognizing believers as partners with God in shaping the world,” added Museveni.
The President also lauded Fr. Tomaino’s developmental initiatives, such as founding schools like Comboni Secondary School and establishing healthcare facilities. Notably, Fr. Tomaino’s environmental stewardship, including tree planting in arid regions of Rushere, was commended by Museveni, who noted the integration of NRM’s socioeconomic transformation message into the missionary’s work.
Mbarara Archdiocese Archbishop, His Grace Lambert Bainomugisha, reflected on Fr. Tomaino’s humility and dedication to his calling. “He exemplified the virtues of St. Paul, demonstrating the profound impact one person can have when rooted in faith,” remarked Bainomugisha.
Fr. Tomaino, ordained in 1965 and assigned to Uganda under the Comboni missionaries, established various projects across the country, ranging from educational institutions to financial cooperatives and healthcare facilities. Despite Catholic tradition dictating burial at Nyamitanga, the headquarters of Mbarara Archdiocese, Fr. Tomaino requested to be laid to rest at Kyamuhunga parish, where he spent much of his missionary service.
Fr. Tomaino, aged 87 at the time of his passing in Italy due to heart failure, left a lasting legacy of service and transformation in Uganda. His body was repatriated to Uganda with the assistance of the government, honoring his lifelong dedication to the country and its people.
