The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has called on the Government to prioritize the needs of persons with disabilities through strengthened inclusive education, accessible health and social services, and legal protections that uphold their dignity.
Archbishop Kaziimba made the appeal on Thursday during a service at St. Luke Church of Uganda, Ntinda, where he baptized 26 and confirmed 81 children with special needs.
The ceremony, he said, was a testament to their inherent worth as God’s beloved children.
He noted that some communities still regard children with disabilities as cursed or bewitched, but reminded the congregation that they are “fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of God.”
The Archbishop commended parents and caregivers for their courage and faith in bringing up the children despite stigma and social challenges.
“As the Church of Uganda, inclusivity is a core value of our ministry. Every person, whether deaf, blind, or physically incapacitated, is created by God and deserves love, affirmation, and equal opportunity,” he emphasized.
Archbishop Kaziimba also applauded Crown Financial Ministries CEO Kurt Dillinger, whose sermon drew from Psalm 139:14–15 and John 3:16 to affirm that every life is precious to God.
“His message encouraged families and strengthened our resolve to serve these children with compassion and excellence,” he said.
The Archbishop further stressed that true transformation must touch “the head, the heart, and the hand,” pledging that the Church will continue to preach Christ while working for a society where no child is left behind, in church, in school, or in community life.
