Rev. Fr Charles Lwanga Ssewava, a senior Catholic priest in the Archdiocese of Kampala and former National Director of Radio Maria Uganda, has died at Lubaga Hospital.
Fr Ssewava died on the evening of Wednesday, September 23, 2026, according to an announcement from the Archdiocese of Kampala. He was serving at Kiwatule Parish at the time of his death.
Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere confirmed the priest’s passing on Wednesday evening, while the Archdiocese asked Catholics to pray for Fr Ssewava, his family and the Kiwatule Parish community.
Burial arrangements had not yet been announced by the Archdiocese.
Fr Ssewava was widely known beyond parish ministry because of his years in Catholic broadcasting. He previously held senior positions at Radio Maria Uganda, including serving as National Director, managing director and editorial director.
His work at the station also brought him into regular contact with listeners through programmes focused on Catholic teaching and Church history.
Radio Maria Uganda paid tribute to the priest, remembering his contribution to Saints of the Week, a programme he worked on with the station’s staff to explore the lives of saints and the history of the Catholic Church.
“Wummula mirembe Fr Ssewava Charles. You have really served the Lord, may he welcome you in his kingdom,” the station said. “We will surely miss working with you in Saints of the Week programme.”
Radio Sapientia Uganda also announced his death, describing him as a senior priest of the Archdiocese of Kampala and former Radio Maria managing director.
Listeners and former colleagues remembered Fr Ssewava for his knowledge of Church history and his ability to communicate in several languages. His expertise also made him a familiar voice in discussions about major developments within the Catholic Church.
In 2025, he appeared in television interviews explaining topics surrounding the papal conclave, the significance of papal names and developments involving Pope Francis.
His work was not limited to broadcasting. Fr Ssewava remained active in parish ministry, preaching and offering pastoral guidance on matters including Lent, the Jubilee Year of Hope and other aspects of Catholic life.
His death marks the loss of a priest who served across both parish ministry and Catholic media, with years of work connecting Church teaching, history and current affairs to Ugandan audiences.
The Archdiocese of Kampala said further information about his burial programme would be communicated later.