President Yoweri Museveni has praised church leaders for preaching the gospel of economic growth and national development.
He noted that the church is playing a vital role in supporting the government’s efforts to improve the lives of people at the grassroots level through initiatives promoting health, education, and socio-economic transformation.
The president’s message was delivered by Ruth Nankabirwa, Minister for Energy and Mineral Development, during the Central Buganda Diocese’s 29th-anniversary celebration held in Kanoni, Gomba District. The event also marked Rev. Bishop Michael Lubowa’s eighth year in office as the Bishop of Central Buganda.
Museveni acknowledged the leadership of the diocese for actively engaging in initiatives aligned with government programs aimed at improving the livelihoods of Ugandans. “Leaders of this diocese have participated in activities consistent with the government’s mandate of transforming Ugandans’ lives through programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM),” Museveni stated in his speech.
The anniversary celebrations also featured a fundraiser dedicated to constructing a retirement home for Bishop Lubowa, set to be completed within the remaining four years of his tenure. Bishop Nathan Ahimbisibwe of the South Ankole Diocese led the main celebrations, which were attended by other notable church leaders, including Bishop Enos Kitto Kagodo of Mukono, Jackson Matovu, and retired Bishop George Ssenabulya.
President Museveni lauded the church for its ongoing community transformation efforts through various investment projects. He urged churches nationwide to continue mobilizing communities to actively participate in government programs.
Highlighting the importance of productivity, Museveni stressed that while prayer is essential, it should be accompanied by hard work and involvement in available development initiatives. “There are still people who believe that praying alone will bring them wealth. God blesses those who work hard, step out of their comfort zones, and embrace programs introduced by the National Resistance Movement (NRM),” he said.
Minister Nankabirwa commended Bishop Lubowa for his exemplary leadership, which has significantly contributed to the growth of the church and its members over the past eight years. “I have walked with the church through numerous activities that support its growth and welfare. If God has blessed you with economic means, I urge you to give back and support our church leaders,” she said.
On behalf of President Museveni, Nankabirwa delivered a contribution of Shs30 million toward the construction of the bishop’s retirement home. She also donated Shs4 million on behalf of Bishop Fredrick Balwa of Kampala Diocese, Bishop Wilson Kisekka of Luwero Diocese, Bishop James Bukomeko of Mityana Diocese, and Bishop Banja of Namirembe Diocese. Additionally, she contributed Shs1 million personally, encouraging the faithful to embrace generosity, particularly in supporting church activities.
The event attracted several dignitaries, including Mr. Robert Sserwanga, Minister for Entertainment in the Buganda Kingdom, representing the Kingdom’s premier, Charles Peter Mayiga. Leaders from the Mother’s Union and other community figures also graced the occasion.
In her address, Minister Judith Nabakooba congratulated Bishop Lubowa on his dedicated service to the people of God. Speaking in her capacity as Minister for Lands, she reassured residents of Lunene in Maddu and Nkwale that the government is working tirelessly to resolve their land disputes. “We have instituted a statutory instrument to guide Busuulu payments to landlords. Once approved by the cabinet, we believe eviction-related issues will significantly decrease,” she said.
Nabakooba further contributed Shs3 million on behalf of the Mityana District communities in Manyi, Banda, Buzibazzi, and Ngugulo, highlighting her commitment to supporting the diocese.
During the prayers, Bishop Ahimbisibwe urged the congregation to continue supporting God’s work and prayed for peace within the country and among individuals.
By the end of the fundraising event, a total of Shs70 million had been collected to support the construction of Bishop Lubowa’s retirement home.
