By Sr. Semerita Mbambu – CSC & Sr. Marha Nambi – CSC………………….
On 8th February, the universal Church commemorates the feast of Saint Josephine Bakhita, patron saint of victims of human trafficking. The Archdiocese of Gulu, however, marked this important day on 9th February 2026 to allow wider participation of the faithful.
The archdiocese organized the commemoration in partnership with the St. Bakhita Anti-Human Trafficking Network Uganda, the Sisters of the Holy Cross in Uganda, and the Association of Religious in Uganda – Gulu Branch under the powerful theme: “St. Bakhita: A Beacon of Hope and Freedom for Victims of Human Trafficking.”
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Most Rev. Raphael P’Mony Wokorach, beginning with the lighting of candles and a solemn procession, praying for all those who have lost their lives due to human trafficking. In his homily, the archbishop expressed deep appreciation for the dedicated work of the St. Bakhita Anti-Human Trafficking Network Uganda and other NGOs and CSOs for their tireless efforts in combating human trafficking. He encouraged all Christians to become vigilant defenders of human dignity, reminding the faithful that the Church must stand firmly with the vulnerable and oppressed. He emphasized that the story of St. Bakhita is a living testimony that suffering does not have the final word—Christ does.
The event was attended by more than 300 participants, including catechists, religious men and women from various congregations, parish priests from across the archdiocese, civil leaders, and many other faithful who gathered in prayer and solidarity.
One of the distinguished guests, Rev. Fr. Jino Okech Mwaka, PhD, from Sacred Heart University Gulu, delivered a warm and insightful welcome address. Drawing from personal experience, Fr. Jino offered a rich and educational reflection on the realities of human trafficking. His remarks set the tone for the day, highlighting how trafficking continues to devastate families and communities, especially young people who are lured by false promises of employment both abroad and within the country.
The keynote address was delivered by Mr. Avuni Alfred, Director of the John Paul II Justice and Peace Centre (JP II JPC), Kampala. He underscored the importance of collaboration among Church institutions, government bodies, and civil society organizations in preventing trafficking, protecting survivors, and prosecuting perpetrators. He called upon communities to strengthen awareness initiatives and reporting mechanisms at the grassroots level.
In his remarks, Rev. Fr. Norbert Samuel Ocayamoi, Pastoral Coordinator of the Archdiocese of Gulu, pledged the archdiocese’s continued commitment and support to efforts aimed at combating human trafficking. His assurance was received with gratitude and renewed hope.
One of the most moving moments of the celebration was the testimony of a survivor who courageously shared her painful yet inspiring journey. She had been trafficked to Saudi Arabia under false promises and returned home bearing deep emotional and physical wounds. With tears in her eyes, she said:
“I regret not listening to my mother and going to Saudi Arabia, only to return with multiple challenges. But I thank God for the St. Bakhita Network for the services offered that have made me who I am today.”
Her testimony deeply touched the congregation and brought the theme of the day vividly to life. It served as a powerful reminder that behind every statistic lies a human story, longing for dignity, healing, and restoration.
The commemoration of St. Josephine Bakhita’s feast in the Archdiocese of Gulu was not only a liturgical celebration but also a strong call to action. It reaffirmed the Church’s unwavering commitment to defending human dignity and standing in solidarity with victims of human trafficking. Inspired by the life and witness of St. Bakhita, the faithful were reminded that even in the darkest experiences of suffering, hope and freedom are possible through faith, action and collective responsibility.
