President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni convened with the family of the late Rev. Fr. Paolino Tomaino today at State House, Entebbe.
Rev. Fr. Tomaino, aged 87, a revered figure in the Comboni Missionary Priesthood and philanthropy within the Mbarara Ecclesiastical Province, passed away on Sunday, March 3, 2024, in Milan, Italy.
The Italian-born priest, belonging to the Comboni Missionaries congregation, is celebrated for his significant contributions to the Catholic faith, education, and healthcare sectors during his extensive tenure in the Mbarara Archdiocese. He spearheaded various impactful projects, including the establishment of Bishop Comboni College – Kambuga, Kyeibuza, and Lamezia Health Centres.
President Museveni, while acknowledging his limited personal acquaintance with Fr. Tomaino, lauded his commendable deeds as a devout clergyman. He expressed his familiarity with the enduring legacy of Catholic priests across Uganda, emphasizing their pivotal role in societal development.
The President extended gratitude to Fr. Tomaino’s family for their unwavering support throughout his missionary endeavors, attributing much of the success of his charitable initiatives to their assistance.
Furthermore, President Museveni encouraged Fr. Tomaino’s family to leverage their social networks to attract Italian investment into Uganda, citing the potential benefits of job creation and economic growth.
In recognition of Fr. Tomaino’s transformative impact on Uganda, President Museveni pledged to posthumously honor him with a medal during the upcoming Heroes Day celebrations.
Highlighting Fr. Tomaino’s dedication to education, President Museveni proposed the completion of Sedes Serpientie Kanoni Girls School in Kyamuhunga, Bushenyi District, in his memory, underscoring his enduring influence on the educational landscape of Uganda.
Gratefully acknowledging the support extended by the Ugandan government, Maria Luisa, Fr. Tomaino’s sister, expressed heartfelt appreciation to President Museveni for his compassion and assistance during Fr. Tomaino’s illness and subsequent repatriation.
Ms. Luisa shared insights into Fr. Tomaino’s profound commitment to serving others, emphasizing his love for children, the impoverished, and the marginalized. She credited the conducive environment provided by the Ugandan government for enabling Fr. Tomaino to realize his altruistic endeavors.
Fr. Tomaino’s life, characterized by integrity and devotion, culminated in his peaceful passing, leaving behind a legacy of service and compassion. Ms. Luisa conveyed gratitude for the dual citizenship granted to Fr. Tomaino, which facilitated his impactful work in Uganda and beyond.