Ankole, Kigezi mourn evangelist
Mourners at the burial
What you need to know:
Canon Karakwende, who is survived by a daughter and widow died in Nairobi, Kenya of diabetes and a fractured bone.
Christians in Ankole and Kigezi have paid tribute to Canon Christopher Karakwende for his evangelism works in the two sub-regions.
Karakwende died on October 10 at Nairobi Hospital where he was being treated for various illnesses including diabetes and a fractured bone.
Speaking at the funeral service last Saturday, retired Bishop of West Ankole the Rev William Magambo said: “Karakwenede was an example of suffering and salvation in the church.”
South Ankole Diocese Bishop Nathan Ahimbisibwe, Rev Patrick Tugume of North Kigezi and Bishop of West Ankole Rev Yona Katonene were among other mourners who attended the funeral service at Omungyenyi in Rubaare Sub-county, Ntngamo District.
Bishop Tugume said Karakwende was selfless in his service, adding the troubles he faced never discouraged him.
Path well travelled
He said it would be difficult to get a person of his dedication.
“We are here praying for the soul of Christopher, who led a path so well, so good in life but faced suffering, we indeed shall always remember him; but we have not seen his replacement in this generation,” he said.
He is survived by one daughter and a widow, Merab Kiryomukuju.
The Minister of State for Animal Industry, Mr Bright Rwamirama who represented President Museveni, said Karakwende would be remembered for his role in developing the country and uniting people.
Profile
Christopher Karakwende
Age: 81
Background: He was born in Kirama Kajara Ntungamo District. .
Work: He was a teacher for about 21 years and started Rubaare Secondary School, before building several churches in Ankole and Kigezi sub-regions. He and others led the evangelical mission, which transformed Anglican Church in Uganda and other East and Central African countries.
