The Bishop of Namirembe Diocese, Moses Banja, has called on Ugandans to shun all forms of conflict, warning that violence erodes social stability and undermines national development.
Delivering his Easter message from his residence in Namirembe, Bishop Banja emphasized that the consequences of war extend beyond physical destruction, affecting the moral and spiritual fabric of societies.
He cautioned that ongoing instability in countries such as South Sudan should serve as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of prolonged conflict.
“War destroys not only infrastructure, but also the moral and spiritual fabric of society,” Banja said, urging citizens to prioritize peace as a foundation for sustainable progress.
The bishop was joined by Data Amosa, the Bishop of Morobo Diocese in South Sudan, whose personal account underscored the human toll of conflict on religious institutions and communities.
Bishop Amosa, who fled violence in South Sudan and is currently residing in Uganda, described a harrowing escape in which he was intercepted by armed rebels. “They took everything I had, including my clerical garments and cross, and burned them in my car before forcing me to flee for my life,” he recounted.
Once responsible for overseeing 35 parishes, Amosa now leads only three, as many churches have been destroyed and congregations dispersed by ongoing violence. “It is very difficult to shepherd a flock under such conditions,” he said, highlighting the challenges faced by religious leaders operating in conflict zones.
Bishop Banja used the occasion to strongly condemn violence and called on Ugandans to embrace unity and peaceful coexistence.
He stressed that the Easter message of Jesus Christ centers on reconciliation, love, and peace—values he urged citizens to reflect in their daily lives.
“We must choose peace if we are to achieve meaningful development as a nation,” he said.
He also directed his message to political leaders, urging them to honor their commitments and foster national cohesion.
“Leaders must work towards uniting the people they serve and delivering on their promises,” he added.
The bishop’s remarks come at a time when conflicts persist in various parts of the world, reinforcing the urgency of promoting peace both locally and globally. His Easter message resonates as a call for reflection, unity, and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence among all Ugandans.
