Former Ankole Diocese Bishop, Rev George Tibesigwa dead

MBARARA, (UG): Emeritus Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr George William Tibesigwa who served as the fourth Bishop of Ankole Diocese in western Uganda is dead. He was 78.

Tibesigwa, who was the Senior Presidential Advisor on Religious Affairs in southwestern Uganda died on Wednesday at Mayanja Memorial Hospital, Mbarara.

The Minister for Presidency, Hon Milly Babalanda, confirmed Bishop Tibesigwa’s death in a brief statement via social media on Wednesday evening.

“Friends, I regret to announce the death of the Rtd Bishop of Ankole Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Tibesigwa George William, who has been a Senior Presidential Advisor on Religious Affairs in South Western Uganda. May the good Lord receive his servant with mercy!” the Minister for Presidency, Milly Babalanda said via X (formerly Twitter).

The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Rt Rev Dr Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu hailed Dr Tibesigwa for his service towards the church describing him as a diligent servant of God who will be greatly missed.

“Saddened by the passing of my brother Bishop George Tibeesigwa, who went to be with the Lord today at Mayanja Memorial Hospital, Mbarara. He served diligently as the Provincial Secretary of COU and as the 4th Bishop of the Ankole Diocese,” the Archbishop said in a brief statement.

“Burial details will follow soon,” he added.

Dr George Tibesigwa retired from service in 2010 after clocking the recommended canonical age of service in the Church of Uganda.

He was replaced by the current Bishop Rt Rev Fred Sheldon Mwesigwa, who enthroned on 18th July 2010.

Tibesigwa graduated with a Doctor of Ministry from the Asian Centre for Theological Studies and Mission/United University of ASIA, and a Master of Divinity University College of Emmanuel and St. Chad.

He also held a Bachelor of Arts (Sociology and Psychology) University of Saskatchewan, a Bachelor of Theology University College of Emmanuel and St. Chad.