Venezuela Finds Global Solidarity In Uganda As Diplomats Gather For Special Mass

KAMPALA — Members of the diplomatic corps in Uganda joined the Venezuelan community and faithful in a special Holy Mass held in memory of the victims of the devastating earthquake that struck Venezuela on June 24, 2026.

The Mass, held at Our Lady of Africa Church, Mbuya Parish, brought together ambassadors, diplomats, religious leaders, and friends of Venezuela in a powerful display of international solidarity during the South American nation’s moment of grief.

The diplomatic corps was led by Venezuela’s Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Fátima Fernandes Juarez, with the Ambassadors of Ethiopia, Eritrea, Rwanda, the European Union Deputy Head of Mission, and other diplomats accredited to Uganda joining the prayers.

Venezuela’s Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Fátima Fernandes Juarez

Rev. Fr. Georges Kwami Kouwonou, Chargé d’Affaires of the Apostolic Nunciature, was the main celebrant of the Holy Mass, during which prayers were offered for those who lost their lives, affected families, and communities recovering from the tragedy.

Addressing the congregation, Ambassador Fernandes thanked Uganda, the diplomatic community, and international partners for standing with Venezuela, saying the gesture demonstrated the strength of friendship beyond borders.

“Your presence here is much more than a diplomatic gesture. It is a symbol of solidarity and faith. It reminds us that, even when thousands of kilometres separate us from our homeland, we are not alone,” she said.

The Ambassador noted that the tragedy came at a painful moment as Venezuela marked the 215th anniversary of its Declaration of Independence, saying the country was carrying the sorrow of families who lost loved ones while remaining united in hope and resilience.

She praised the courage of Venezuelan citizens, rescue teams, and institutions that responded to the disaster, highlighting stories of communities supporting one another amid the crisis.

Ambassador Fernandes further hailed the global response to the disaster, noting that search and rescue teams from more than 31 countries, alongside humanitarian partners, extended support to Venezuela during the emergency.

“Every prayer offered and every act of generosity has brought hope to our people. The Venezuelan people will remember this solidarity always, with gratitude in our hearts,” she added.

She also extended appreciation to the Apostolic Nunciature in Uganda, Our Lady of Africa Parish, the diplomatic community, Ugandans, and Venezuelans living in Kampala for their support during the difficult period.

The service concluded with prayers for eternal peace for the victims, comfort for affected families, and strength for Venezuela as the country continues its journey of recovery and reconstruction.

Mr Daniel Rugarama, Chairman of the Pan African Movement