Renowned Ugandan Catholic Priest and Composer Fr. James Kabuye Dies at 92

What the report says

The Catholic Church in Uganda has announced the death of Rev. Fr. Dr. James Kabuye, a well-known priest and liturgical composer from the Diocese of Kiyinda-Mityana, who died at the age of 92. Watchdog Uganda reported that he was widely recognized for shaping contemporary Catholic sacred music in Uganda, with many of his songs becoming familiar in churches across the country.

According to the report, Fr. Kabuye was ordained in 1962 and later studied music in Switzerland. He played a notable role in the Church’s preparations for the canonisation of the Uganda Martyrs in Rome in 1964, including work with composer Joseph Kyagambiddwa and participation in an African choir that performed Ganda music at St Peter’s Basilica. After returning to Uganda in 1967, he was assigned to Rubaga Cathedral in Kampala, where he adapted hymns and composed music in local languages.

The article says his career stretched over more than five decades, during which he served on music committees, taught choirs, organized festivals and helped compile hymn books used in parishes nationwide. Among the pieces highlighted are Abajulizi Ab’Ettendo and other widely sung hymns associated with Uganda Martyrs Day and seasonal church celebrations.

His death is significant because his work helped blend Catholic worship with Ugandan musical traditions, especially Kiganda styles and Luganda-language texts. The report says funeral arrangements were still being finalized, and church leaders and choirs were expected to pay tribute in the days ahead.