Hundreds of Christians from North West Ankole Diocese gathered at St. Paul’s Cathedral to welcome and bid farewell to the ninth Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, as he continued his farewell tour across the Ankole region ahead of his retirement next year.
Archbishop Kaziimba is expected to retire from active service upon attaining the mandatory retirement age of 65, in accordance with the canons of the Church of Uganda.
Delivering his sermon on Saturday, Kaziimba emphasized the importance of unity as the foundation of a strong and progressive Church and society.
“Unity is what strengthens the Church and enables us to fulfill God’s mission. Regardless of our tribes, denominations, or social status, we must remain united and work together for the growth of the Church and our communities,” he said.
He encouraged Christians to uphold love, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence, noting that divisions weaken both spiritual and social development.
The Archbishop also reassured believers that his retirement from active leadership would not mark the end of his ministry.
“Retirement does not mean stepping away from serving God. I will continue preaching the Gospel and supporting Church activities whenever called upon,” he added.
Leaders of North West Ankole Diocese, led by Head of Laity Lay Canon Christopher Bjshaka, praised Archbishop Kazimba for his dedicated leadership and contribution during his tenure as the ninth Archbishop of the Church of Uganda.
“We are grateful for Archbishop Kaziimba’s faithful service, commitment and guidance over the years. His leadership has strengthened the Church and inspired many Christians across the country,” Bjshaka said.
Church leaders and congregants credited Archbishop Kazimba with providing spiritual guidance and stewardship during a period of growth and transformation within the Church.
Archbishop Kaziimba is expected to continue his farewell tour across other dioceses in the Ankole region as preparations for his retirement gather pace.