Oldest priest in Bukoba diocese dies at 90

KAGERA: THE Catholic Church in Bukoba Diocese is mourning the death of Fr Dominic Rugemalira, who was among the oldest living priests in Kagera region.

He died on October 17, this year after serving the Church for 62 years. Fr Rugemalira was born on 6 December, 1935 at Rubya Village in Muleba District.

After his preparatory education in 1958 he joined Katigondo Major Seminary in Uganda for Theology studies. In 1960 he won a scholarship for further studies in Rome, Italy where he obtained a Master’s degree in 1963. In December that year he was ordained a priest.

Between 1964 and 1966, he went back to Rome where he graduated with a PhD. Upon his return to Tanzania, he was posted to Ntungamo Major Seminary, Rubya Seminary and Kipalapala Senior Seminary as a tutor and patron. At least eight Bishops including Protase Cardinal Rugambwa are among his students.

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Others are Archbishop Jude Thadeus Ruwaichi of the Dar es Salaam Archdiocese, bishops Deziderius Rwoma, Methodius Kilaini and Almachius Rweyongeza of Kayanga Diocese.

From 1987 to June 2009, he served as the parish priest of Katoma for 22 years. In 2006, he was appointed assistant parish priest at Kagondo, where he served until his death.

Speaking during his burial at Rubya Seminary’ cemetery on Monday, Auxiliary Bishop Methodius Kilaini described the late Fr Rugemalira as an icon and a model who devoted most of his life serving the church.

“As we mourn the passing of our beloved Fr Dominick Rugemalira, we are also celebrating his life of service to the Church and the world. May the Lord God rest his soul in eternal peace, Amen,” he said.

Bishop Jovitus Francis Mwijage of the Diocese of Bukoba, expressed deep sorrow over Fr Rugemalira’s death.

“Let us continue to pray for the repose of his soul: Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace, Amen,” he said.