The Diocese of Mukono has intensified its fundraising campaign to complete the construction of its new cathedral, with an estimated Shs11 billion required to finish the landmark project.
Christians from the 12 archdeaconries that make up Mukono Diocese gathered in large numbers during a major fundraising event aimed at mobilising resources towards the completion of the cathedral.
Construction of the project began last year, with the first phase already completed.
The Chairperson of the Cathedral Building Committee, Dr Livingstone Sewanyana, said the diocese has introduced several fundraising initiatives, including charity runs, contributions from schools and a campaign encouraging every household within the diocese to contribute Shs20,000 towards the project.
"We have organised different fundraising activities, including charity runs, contributions from schools and a campaign where every household in the diocese is encouraged to contribute Shs20,000," Sewanyana said.
He added that private individuals, business leaders and companies, including Centenary Bank and Next Media Services, have supported the construction efforts.
So far, more than Shs3 billion has been spent on the cathedral's construction.
The diocesan Resource Mobiliser, Rev Abbey William Melewoma, said the latest fundraising drive generated about Shs200 million in cash and pledges, expressing confidence that those who made commitments would fulfil them.
Rev Melewoma said the completed cathedral is expected to become one of the largest in Africa, with four galleries, three of which have already been completed, and a seating capacity of about 6,000 worshippers.
He said the entire project is expected to cost Shs11 billion, with completion scheduled for next year.
The cathedral is intended to serve as Mukono Diocese's gift to the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev Dr Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, upon his retirement.
"This cathedral is the gift that Mukono Diocese wishes to present to the Archbishop, The Most Rev Dr Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, when he retires," Melewoma said.
The Bishop of Mukono Diocese, Rt Rev Enos Kitto Kagodo, commended Christians for their commitment and generosity, urging them to remain steadfast as more resources are still needed to complete the project.
Bishop Kagodo said every Christian has a responsibility to serve God and contribute towards the growth of His kingdom, describing the cathedral as a lasting legacy for future generations.
"Everyone was created by God to serve Him and expand His kingdom. When we dedicate ourselves to God's work, He blesses us. This cathedral will remain a lasting legacy for future generations of Christians," he said.
The chief guest, Fred Baseke, Member of Parliament for Ntenjeru South, encouraged Christians to continue supporting the project, saying giving towards God's work is an expression of gratitude for His blessings.
Baseke, however, raised concern over the growing practice of making pledges to churches without fulfilling them, saying the trend is common among some politicians.
He urged leaders from Mukono Diocese to actively support the cathedral project, noting that elected leaders have networks and influence that can help mobilise resources.
The new cathedral project was initiated due to the limited capacity of the current St Philip and St Andrew Cathedral, which was built about 90 years ago and can accommodate only about 500 worshippers despite the growth of the Christian population in Mukono Diocese.
