President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has hailed the Church as a central pillar in Uganda’s development, citing its strong contribution to moral guidance, education, and health.
His message was delivered by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon Thomas Tayebwa, at the closing ceremony of the Western Uganda Anglican Bishops and their Spouses Conference held at St James Cathedral, Ruharo in Mbarara City on Sunday.
The five-day conference brought together retired and serving bishops, along with their spouses, from the 15 dioceses of Western Uganda.
President Museveni praised the unity and development-focused approach of the dioceses and welcomed the active involvement of bishops’ spouses, noting the growing role of women in leadership.
He urged the Church to deepen its partnership with Government in the country’s socio-economic transformation, particularly in lifting Ugandans out of poverty through four key sectors of wealth creation: commercial agriculture, industry, services and ICT.
In his remarks, Tayebwa said it was a blessing to pray with the spiritual leaders, adding that he had learned from their humility and their respect for the wisdom of their predecessors—an example he said current leaders should emulate.
He congratulated Prof. Rt Rev Sheldon Mwesigwa, Bishop of Ankole Diocese, upon his election as the new chairperson of the association, describing him as a visionary leader.
Tayebwa also thanked Rt Rev Onesmus Asiimwe, Bishop of North Kigezi, for his dedicated service during his tenure as chairperson.
