The East Ruwenzori Diocese on Sunday celebrated its 16th anniversary with a grand thanksgiving service at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Kamwenge, led by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu.
The Diocese was established on August 9, 2009, after being carved out of Ruwenzori Diocese, with Rt. Rev. Edward Bamucwanira as the founding Bishop. Its current shepherd, Rt. Rev. George Turyasingura, was consecrated and enthroned on January 7, 2018.
Archbishop Kaziimba praised Bishop Turyasingura for his visionary leadership, which has positioned East Ruwenzori as a model diocese within a short time, while also paying tribute to Bishop Bamucwanira for laying a strong foundation.
Presenting a 16-year progress report, the Head of Laity, Canon Caleb Ahimbisibwe, highlighted remarkable milestones. The Diocese now oversees more than 70 primary schools, 10 secondary schools, vocational institutions, and a Diocesan Health Centre III.
Clergy training has flourished, with many priests advancing academically. Currently, the Diocese boasts 28 priests with certificates, 19 with diplomas, 25 with bachelor’s degrees, six with master’s, and one pursuing a doctorate.
On the economic front, the Diocese has invested in two commercial buildings in Kamwenge town, 20 acres of coffee, 15 acres of cocoa, and 60 acres of eucalyptus forest in Kiziba.
Major infrastructure projects include a modern Bishop’s residence, the renovation of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and an ongoing multi-billion shilling project for a new 5,000-seater cathedral.
From a single vehicle in 2009, the Diocese now owns a fleet of 16 vehicles and motorcycles to support mission work.
During his pastoral visit, Archbishop Kaziimba laid foundation stones for several projects, including the renovated cathedral, a new Mothers’ Union building housing Millennium SACCO, and a new Bishop’s Office.
Bishop Turyasingura credited these achievements to the unity of Christians, clergy, and partnerships with the government and other stakeholders.
Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, the Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, commended the Diocese for complementing government programmes in education, healthcare, and agriculture, noting that its interventions are improving livelihoods and advancing socio-economic transformation.
The service drew a wide array of church and political leaders, including Bishops from across Uganda and Rwanda, Members of Parliament, district leaders, and local dignitaries.
