South Sudan’s first cardinal, Gabriel Zubeir Wako is a retired Archbishop of Khartoum  known for his unwavering commitment to peace, refugees and human rights.

Born on February 27, 1941, in Mboro, Sudan, Wako’s early years were marked by his passion for Christianity, which was nurtured by living close to the church during his childhood.

Ordained on July 21, 1963, at the age of 22, Cardinal Wako’s priestly journey began as an assistant parish priest and inspector for Christian Religious Education in the Gogrial District schools. He later became the rector of St Anthony’s Minor Seminary in Bussere and served as the procurator for the Vicariate of Wau, where he also held the position of vicar delegate. Additionally, he was the provincial commissioner of the Boy Scouts and Girl Guides.

On December 12, 1974, he was appointed Bishop of Wau and ordained on April 6, 1975. He then became the Coadjutor Bishop of Khartoum in October 1979. From 1981 to 2016 he served as the Archbishop of Khartoum.

Cardinal Wako was president of the Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference 1978-1990 and again from 1992-1999. On October 21, 2003, St. John Paul II elevated him to the cardinalate. He participated in numerous Synods, including the October 2014 Synod on the Family and took part in the conclaves that elected Benedict XVI and Francis.

Cardinal Wako’s commitment to his flock was evident throughout his ministry. He prioritized engaging with families and addressing the needs of children orphaned by civil war. He also faced personal danger, notably escaping an assassination attempt in 2010 while celebrating Sunday Mass.

He is known for his unwavering commitment to peace and human rights, taking firm stands against human rights violations and the ongoing war in Sudan, and writing numerous pastoral letters urging for peace promotion and Christian renewal.

After serving the Archdiocese of Khartoum for 35 years, Cardinal Wako retired on December 10, 2016, at the age of 75.

In his retirement, he continues to be a respected figure in the Catholic Church, recently celebrating sixty years of priesthood. His life story is one of unwavering faith, service, and leadership in the face of adversity, making him a significant figure in both the Catholic Church and Sudanese history.