President Museveni has appealed to the Church to work closely with the government in promoting modern farming as a way to uplift families from poverty and boost household incomes.
In a message delivered by the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr Chris Baryomunsi, the President said the Church holds significant influence in communities and can play a transformative role in guiding families towards productive enterprise.
The remarks were made during a memorial thanksgiving service in Rubanda District for the late Can. John Batuma and his wife, both revered figures in the Kigezi sub-region.
“Empowering households to produce not only for subsistence but also for sale is a key step in the fight against poverty,” Museveni stated.
“The Church should partner with the government in promoting monitored farming, through enterprise selection based on land size.”
The President urged religious leaders to help families identify viable farming activities suited to their circumstances and pledged continued government support in such initiatives.
“It does not glorify God to find His people trapped in poverty amidst abundant resources,” Museveni said.
“That’s why the government is working to ensure every household becomes productive.”
Kigezi Diocese Bishop, Rt Rev Gad Akanjuna, in his sermon, encouraged believers to lead purposeful lives that leave lasting impacts.
He praised the late Canon John Batuma for his exemplary service, describing him as a man of integrity and vision.
State Minister of Finance in charge of General Duties, Henry Musasizi, also paid tribute to Batuma’s legacy, noting his contributions to the development of the Kigezi region.
“I want to appreciate the good deeds of the late Can. John Batuma, especially when you consider how people have continued to speak highly of him,” said Musasizi.
The call for Church-government partnership in agriculture comes as Uganda continues to promote commercial farming as a pillar of its development agenda.
President Museveni’s message reaffirms the importance of faith-based institutions in community mobilisation and economic transformation.