Editorial
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Fort Portal is mourning the untimely death of its senior priest, Msgr. Peter Kumaraki Araali, who has passed away this afternoon at Nsambya Hospital at the age of 77.
Biography
Born on March 12, 1949, Msgr. Kumaraki was the son of the late Zakaria Rwakaikara and Maria Boonabana of Rwaitengya Village in Kyenjojo District, under Butiiti Catholic Parish in the Diocese of Fort Portal. He devoted his life to the service of God and the Church for 48 years.
He received his early priestly formation at St. Mary’s Seminary Virika, Katigondo Major Seminary and later studied at Ggaba National Major Seminary. He furthered his education at the University of Portland in the United States and at Makerere University.
Msgr. Kumaraki was ordained to the order priesthood on April 30, 1978. Over the years, he served the Church in numerous capacities with dedication and humility.
He was appointed Vicar General of Fort Portal Diocese, serving under Bishop Paul Kalanda. He also served as Treasurer General of the Diocese from 1992 to 1995, Rector of St. Mary’s Minor Seminary from 1985 to 1992 and again from 1998 to 2004, and Parish Priest of St. Charles Lwanga Town Parish from 1995 to 1997.
Between August 2004 and 2007, he served as Curate at St. Charles Borromeo Parish in the Diocese of Fort Wayne, Indiana, in the United States. Upon his return, he worked as Lay Apostolate Coordinator for Fort Portal Diocese, Director of St. Adolf Catechetical Training Centre from 2009 to 2017, and Chaplain of Holy Family Banyatereza Convent.
From 2017 until his death, he served as Curate at Virika Parish and Resident Priest at Kasusu Chapel.
By the time of his appointment to Kasusu, Msgr. Kumaraki had requested to retire, but continued to serve faithfully. He also represented the Diocese in Tooro Kingdom meetings and was widely respected for his commitment to both the Church and cultural heritage.
Beyond his pastoral ministry, Msgr. Kumaraki was a strong advocate for the Empaako naming tradition and chaired efforts aimed at safeguarding the cultural identity of the Tooro and Bunyoro people through language, music, drama, and documentation.
According to the Chancellor of the Diocese, Fr. John Tumuhairwe, burial arrangements will be communicated in due course.
The Diocese remembers Msgr. Peter Kumaraki Araali as a devoted priest, educator, administrator, and cultural champion whose legacy will continue to inspire generations.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.