President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged to address the issue of modern churches being registered as Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs).
Speaking at the Universal Church Mega Youth Crusade in Kaliro, Museveni emphasized, “A church is a church, not an NGO.”
The Crusade, organized by Prophet David Isanga of the Universal Apostles Fellowship Church of Righteousness, was themed “Remember Your Creator In the Days of Your Youth” (Ecclesiastes 12:1).
Prophet Isanga had expressed concerns about the financial burden of registering churches under NGO laws, which require renewal every five years.
“For long this Church has been registering as Non-Governmental Organization yet this is the only indigenous Church founded by typical Ugandans; its unique in its calling and I think even the rest of the world are looking forward to see it through that the Church of Righteousness propagates to their countries,” Prophet Isanga said.
“We therefore request you, Your Excellency, that these taxes in the name of registering us as NGOs or Companies limited by guarantee every after five years are scrapped.” he added
In his response, Museveni promised to address these issues, emphasizing that churches should be recognized primarily for their spiritual contributions rather than their corporate compliance.
The President praised the church’s comprehensive approach to ministry, drawing parallels with the multifaceted life of Jesus Christ.
President Museveni praised the church’s holistic approach to ministry, which he compared to the four dimensions of Jesus Christ.
“In the 1960s, some religious teachings focused only on one dimension of Jesus Christ’s life. He not only preached the gospel but also healed the sick, fed the hungry, and worked as a carpenter. Christians should embody all these dimensions preaching, healing, feeding, and working diligently,” Museveni stated.
Reflecting on historical decisions, Museveni recounted his refusal to ban Balokole churches in 1986, a move he credited with allowing diverse religious expressions to flourish in Uganda.
He noted, “I remembered when Jesus was asked to stop those casting out demons in his name. He said, ‘If they are not against us, they are with us.’ This mindset allowed new churches to bring fresh energy and value.”
Adding that: “From that you can see that there has been a lot of value addition. The old churches are there but the new churches are also there. Anybody who wants can go anywhere he wants. I’m very happy for that simple decision since it helped to create new energy.”
To support the church’s mission, Museveni also contributed Shs100 million to the Church SACCO.
Apostle Isanga expressed gratitude to the President for his attendance.
He stated, “For a long time we have been waiting for this moment. Our love for you and the government cannot be over emphasized because you brought peace that has enabled all Ugandans to work and prosper.”
Isanga also praised Museveni’s leadership, particularly his firm stance against homosexuality,
“You proved this by passing the Anti-Homosexuality Law.” he said
He reassured President Museveni that his followers, especially the youth, were law-abiding and strong supporters of the NRM government.
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