Pope Francis Appoints Soroti Bishop As Archbishop

Pope Francis has appointed the Bishop of Soroti, Rt. Rev. Emmanuel Obbo, as the new Archbishop of Tororo Archdiocese.

The appointment was made public on Thursday January 2. Archbishop Obbo, 61, is to replace His Grace Joseph Kiwanuka Lote whose retirement has been accepted by the Pope upon reaching the age of 75.

The Pope also appointed Bishop Obbo as the Apostolic Administrator for the now sede vacante of the vacant seat for the Diocese of Soroti. This is the first appointment to be made by Pope Francis in Uganda since he became Pontiff in March last year.

Archbishop Obbo, was born on October 7, 1952 in Nagoke/Kirewa, Nagongera Parish in Tororo  district.

He was ordained as a priest of the Congregation of the Apostles of Jesus on December 13, 1986 in Nagongera Parish, Tororo district.

He was appointed as second Bishop of Soroti Catholic Diocese in June 2007 and consecrated on October 6, 2007 replacing Bishop Erasmus Desderius Wandera who retired.

In a short telephone interview, Archbishop Obbo confirmed to Uganda Radio Network his new appointment and expressed happiness. He says the Grace of the Lord is with him. He promised to continue being committed to God always.

He encouraged unity among Christians, Youth and families.