President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged religious institutions to leverage their influence to drive socio-economic transformation, promote moral uprightness, and eliminate household poverty across Uganda.
The President emphasized that spiritual guidance must walk hand-in-hand with practical efforts to uplift the livelihoods of ordinary citizens.
His message was delivered by the Minister for the Presidency, Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, during the 141st Bishop James Hannington commemoration at Kyando Village in Mayuge District. Christians gathered at the site to honor the legacy of the Anglican missionary who was martyred in Uganda on October 29, 1885.
President Museveni commended the Church of Uganda, the organizing committee, and the people of Busoga for keeping Bishop Hannington’s memory alive. He noted that the occasion is more than a historical reflection; it is a reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and commitment required to serve humanity.
“The Christian faith today is built on the foundation of martyrs and other Christians who died for their faith, as Bishop James Hannington did,” the President noted, drawing a parallel to the annual June 3rd Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations.
Bishop Hannington was killed in 1885 on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II through the Busoga Chief Luba, after his missionary motives were misunderstood. Museveni urged modern believers to emulate this historical resilience by guiding younger generations toward disciplined and responsible lives.
The Head of State praised the historical and ongoing contributions of faith-based organizations to Uganda’s development, particularly in establishing vital schools, hospitals, and rural health centers.
However, he stressed that national development requires a joint effort between the state, religious bodies, cultural leaders, and the private sector. While the government provides security and foundational infrastructure, churches are uniquely positioned to mobilize communities for economic growth.
The President directly appealed to the Church of Uganda to champion active participation in state-backed wealth-creation initiatives designed to boost household incomes, including:Parish Development Model (PDM),Emyooga and Operation Wealth Creation (OWC)
Supporting the event’s goals, the President contributed Shs 30 million toward the Church’s ongoing community work.
Minister Babalanda echoed the President’s sentiments, challenging religious leaders to complement their Sunday sermons with actionable guidance on hard work, financial discipline, and economic empowerment. She reminded the faithful that overcoming
