The Cardinal elect, Apostolic Nuncio, visits refugees in Adjumani

Adjumani | On World Day for Migrants and Refugees, Apostolic Nuncio Luigi Bianco and Cardinal Elect Monsignor Fabio Baggie visited the Nyumanzi refugee settlement in Adjumani.

The heartfelt and meaningful event was held under the theme “God walks with His People.” The celebration highlighted the importance of welcoming, protecting, promoting, and integrating migrants and refugees into society.

They also marked the occasion by planting trees at the settlement.

The day began with a solemn mass, during which the Cardinal Elect Monsignor delivered an inspiring homily about compassion and solidarity with the displaced.

He highlighted the unique challenges that migrants and refugees face, urging the community to accept them as brothers and sisters.

“Although this was celebrated weeks ago, I am honoured to be here with you today. The holy father, Pope Francis has a message for this day,” the cardinal elected told the refugees.

Following the mass, various activities were organised to engage the local community. Cultural performances highlighted migrants’ rich heritage, while speeches from community leaders advocated for refugees’ rights.

Monsignor Baggie actively participated, sharing personal anecdotes that resonated with the audience and reinforced the message of hope and resilience.

This celebration not only raised awareness about the plight of migrants and refugees, but it also fostered a sense of inclusivity and understanding among the Adjumani community.

“As refugees, we came empty-handed, we are happy that the government of Uganda and the people of Adjumani welcomed us here, we have now found comfort here,” Sadamon Alek Minyiel, a refugee said.

Pascal Ajusi, Adjumani’s deputy refugee desk officer, stated in his remarks that the organization is committed to caring for refugees in Uganda until South Sudan achieves peace.

“We have kept them here for 10 years, it is our mandate as the office of the prime minister to take good care of the refugees,” Ajusi said.

“With the coming of his eminence Monsignor Fabio Baggie, this day is so special because he travelled a long distance to celebrate this day with refugees in Uganda at Bidibidi and Nyumanzi refugee settlements,” the Apostolic Nuncio to Uganda Luigi Bianco said.

The day was crowned by tree planting activity. According to Fr John Kawisha of the Missionaries of St Charles at the Nyumanzi refugee settlement, tree planting is consistent with the Pope’s message of tree planting as well as restoring trees that were cut down as a result of the refugees’ arrival.

“We know that the refugees rely on wood fuel, they cut trees for the construction of shelter, and so many other things, so we will engage them in tree planting so that the trees destroyed can be restored,” Fr John said.

The Bishop of the Arua Diocese, Sabino Ocan Odoki, noted that the church has played an important role in addressing the plight of refugees.

Background

Every year since 1914, the Church has observed World Day of Migrants and Refugees at the end of September. This day dates back only a few months before the outbreak of World War I.