Archbishop Kaziimba used the occasion to urge Christians to take the lead in protecting the environment in Bundibugyo, a mountainous region prone to landslides.
He warned that deforestation and poor farming practices were exposing communities to disasters that continue to claim lives and destroy property.
“Landslides continue to destroy property and claim lives in this region. This can be prevented through tree planting and sustainable farming practices. When a child is born, plant a tree. On every baptism and confirmation, ensure that trees are planted. We become stewards of creation,” he said.
The Archbishop also decried the misuse of cocoa income, the district’s main cash crop, particularly the practice of marrying off young girls using proceeds from cocoa sales.
He urged families to prioritise education and invest household income in securing a better future for children.
“Cocoa is a blessing to Bundibugyo. Let us maintain its quality to meet global standards. But we must also ensure that the money it brings is not used to destroy our children’s future through early marriages,” he added.
Bishop Barnabas Tibaijuka reaffirmed the Diocese’s mission-driven focus on evangelism, noting that open-air crusades remain central to outreach.
He appealed for continued support, pointing out that some partners had withdrawn funding over the Church of Uganda’s uncompromising stance on homosexuality.
Presenting the diocesan report, head of laity Polly Tibemanya detailed steady growth since the Diocese’s inauguration on August 27, 2023.
Though geographically small, he said unity among Christians had driven impressive achievements.
The Diocese now has 49 clergy, with 74 others undergoing theological training, and has significantly improved clergy welfare, with 97 percent now living in permanent houses built largely with Christian contributions.
Infrastructure milestones include the Bishop’s residence, the Bishop Orombi pavilion, guest houses, clergy housing, and new church buildings across parishes.
On the development front, the Diocese has invested in cocoa plantations, acquired vehicles and a tipper lorry, and strengthened financial services through TALENT SACCO, now with more than 300 members.
Education and health remain priorities. Bishop Barnabas Divinity College, established in April 2025, is training 36 students, while Mantoroba Health Centre II continues to receive diocesan support.
Women’s empowerment programmes have also expanded through savings schemes led by Mama Alice Tibaijuka.
Church growth has been rapid, with the Diocese expanding from three to six archdeaconries, 21 to 37 parishes, and 168 to 248 churches in just two years.
The Diocesan Council has temporarily suspended further expansion to consolidate existing structures.
Looking ahead, plans include expanding St Barnabas Cathedral, constructing a social hall and pharmacy, developing commercial property in Bundibugyo town, purchasing land for large-scale farming, and completing staff housing.
The thanksgiving service was attended by Bishop Reuben Kisembo of Ruwenzori Diocese, retired Bishop Edward Bamucwanira of East Ruwenzori, the Prime Minister of Obudhingiya Bwa Bwamba, and other dignitaries.