By Odeke Emmanuel Akol
The Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, was today received in audience by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at the Apostolic Palace in Vatican City. The meeting came shortly after the Holy Father presided over a solemn Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, where prayers were offered for global peace, unity, and harmony among nations.
The visit is part of Speaker Among’s broader diplomatic and interfaith engagement aimed at strengthening Uganda’s international partnerships and fostering dialogue between political and spiritual leaders. The Mass, celebrated by Pope Leo XIV, drew dignitaries and pilgrims from across the world, creating a rare opportunity for heads of state and government officials to join the Catholic faithful in prayer for shared values and humanity’s collective well-being.
During their private meeting, Pope Leo XIV and Speaker Among discussed a range of issues, including the role of faith in promoting social cohesion, the importance of service-oriented leadership, and the need to safeguard the dignity of all people, particularly the marginalized and vulnerable.
According to officials within the Ugandan delegation, Speaker Among conveyed the gratitude of the Ugandan people to the Holy Father for his continued prayers and moral guidance, especially in the face of global challenges such as conflict, poverty, and climate change. She also highlighted Uganda’s commitment to religious tolerance, humanitarian support for refugees, and national unity.
Pope Leo XIV, who has consistently championed peace and reconciliation in conflict-affected regions, commended Uganda for its efforts in promoting dialogue and supporting displaced communities. He encouraged Ugandan leaders to continue prioritizing inclusive development, environmental stewardship, and the protection of human rights.
Following the audience, Speaker Among joined members of the Vatican diplomatic corps for a brief tour of significant religious and cultural sites within the Holy See, underscoring the cultural dimension of her official engagement.
In a statement released by her office, the Speaker described the meeting as “a deeply humbling and spiritually enriching encounter” and reaffirmed her commitment to fostering unity, justice, and the common good within Uganda’s governance.
The visit to the Vatican marks a significant milestone in Uganda’s parliamentary diplomacy and reflects an enduring respect for faith as a pillar of global peacebuilding.
