The former head of the Makeni Diocese, Bishop Georgio Biguzzi, has passed away at the age of 88.

The sad news was confirmed early this morning by the current bishop of the diocese, Bob John Koroma, in a statement to senior journalist and BBC reporter Umaru Fofanah. Bishop Koroma disclosed that Bishop Biguzzi died at 4:15 AM in a hospital in Parma, Italy.

Bishop Koroma and the Vice Chancellor of the University of Makeni, Fr. Dr. Joe Turay, had traveled to Parma following the deterioration of Bishop Biguzzi’s health.

Bishop Biguzzi had always expressed a desire to be laid to rest in Makeni, northern Sierra Leone, where he dedicated many decades of his life to serving the Catholic Church and the local community. Bishop Koroma confirmed that efforts are currently underway to repatriate Bishop Biguzzi’s remains to honor his final wish.

Beyond his religious duties, Bishop Biguzzi played a significant role in Sierra Leone’s history. He was instrumental in ending the country’s brutal civil war, participating in the delegation that negotiated with rebels in Togo, leading to a peace accord. His contributions to peace and reconciliation in Sierra Leone remain a testament to his enduring legacy.

Additionally, Bishop Biguzzi was a pivotal figure in the establishment of the University of Makeni (UNIMAK), the first university in northern Sierra Leone, further cementing his legacy in the region’s educational and social development.

The Catholic community and the people of Sierra Leone mourn the loss of a devoted servant and a champion for peace and education. Bishop Biguzzi’s contributions to the church and the country will be remembered for generations to come.