Early Life and Education

Born in Kyanyanda Village, Rugaaga sub-county, in the Mbarara District on September 23, 1929, Kakubi was baptized on September 25, 1929. He received the Sacrament of Confirmation on June 12, 1939. He traced his lineage to the Babiito dynasty of Bunyoro, descending from King Lukidi Lwanyatooro Mpuuga Wasswa.

He began his primary education at Birunduma Primary School and later attended Nyamitanga Primary School. In 1944, he joined St. Francis Xavier Kitabi Minor Seminary, where he spent seven years. He continued his education at Katigondo Major Seminary and later at Allen Hall, St. Edmund College in London, where he completed his theological studies.

Priesthood and Early Ministry

Ordained on June 11, 1960, in Westminister Cathedral, London, Kakubi began his ministry at Nyamitanga Parish and served as a chaplain at Ntare Secondary School. His early assignments also included teaching at Katigondo Major Seminary and serving as the Diocesan Secretary for Education and Director of Social Action for Mbarara and Kabale dioceses.

Episcopacy

In 1969, John Baptist Kakubi was appointed the Bishop of the Diocese of Mbarara by Pope Paul VI. His episcopal ordination took place on August 1, 1969, at Kololo grounds in Kampala during the historic visit of Pope Paul VI to Uganda. As a bishop, Kakubi focused on unity within the diocese, self-reliance initiatives, and the development of educational institutions.

Under his leadership, significant progress was made, including the establishment of post-primary educational institutions and the development of pastoral structures. He also played a pivotal role in the 1986 Diocesan Synod, which fostered unity and cooperation among clergy and laity.

Retirement and Legacy

Bishop Kakubi retired in 1991 and spent his retirement in Ibanda, where he continued to engage in pastoral and spiritual activities. He is remembered for his dedication to the Church and his significant contributions to the spiritual and social welfare of the people in the Archdiocese of Mbarara. He passed away on February 11, 2016, at the age of 86.