By Paul kasiita — Kampala, Uganda
Rt. Rev. Msgr. Expedito Magembe, the founding director of Mount Sion Prayer Centre in Bukalango and chief exorcist of the Kampala Archdiocese, has passed away at the age of 88. He died on May 9, 2025.
The announcement was made by Rev. Fr. Pius Male Ssentumbwe, Chancellor of the Archdiocese of Kampala, on behalf of His Grace Paul Ssemogerere, Archbishop of Kampala.
“With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Monsignor Expedito Magembe of Mount Sion Bukalango,” the statement read. Burial arrangements, it added, will be communicated in due course.
A priest for more than 50 years, Msgr. Magembe had reportedly been battling illness for some time. His passing comes just over a year after he was honored with the Cherubim Musical Honour, recognizing his outstanding contributions to sacred liturgy and Catholic music.
In February 2024, he was celebrated as one of Uganda’s most influential liturgical composers, having authored nearly 1,000 hymns featured in the widely used Muje Tutendereze Mukama hymnbook. He is regarded as one of the country’s most celebrated Catholic composers, alongside notable figures such as Fr. James Kabuye and Rev. Fr. Joseph Namukangula.
Through Mount Sion and his signature Sangaalo (joy) prayer sessions, Monsignor Magembe was instrumental in drawing many Catholics back to the Church, particularly those influenced by Pentecostal movements. Over the years, the prayer centre has welcomed thousands from across Uganda and beyond, seeking spiritual guidance and healing.
He is remembered for introducing charismatic worship within the Catholic context, incorporating healing prayers and teachings focused on personal and spiritual renewal. He often led deliverance sessions aimed at breaking ancestral ties, which he believed contributed to misfortune and poverty in people’s lives.
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