The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has commended Ankole Diocese and North West Ankole Diocese for their outstanding efforts in promoting socio-economic transformation among households and communities.
Archbishop Kaziimba made the remarks during his farewell visits to North West Ankole Diocese in Ibanda District on Saturday and Ankole Diocese in Mbarara City on Sunday.
Both Rt Rev. Amos Magezi of North West Ankole Diocese and Rt Rev. Assoc. Prof. Fred Sheldon Mwesigwa of Ankole Diocese are set to retire next year.
Archbishop Kaziimba praised the two dioceses for embracing holistic ministry that combines the preaching of the Gospel with initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods and transforming communities.
"I have toured diocesan projects and interacted with several stakeholders, and it is very clear that whereas the Gospel is being preached, the Church is also working hard to lift people out of poverty," he said.
During his visit to North West Ankole Diocese, Archbishop Kaziimba laid the foundation stone for Sunrise Plaza, a commercial building owned by the Diocese.
He also toured several development projects, including the multipurpose building under construction at Kibubura Integrated Primary School, the theatre under construction at Ibanda Mission Health Centre III, the science complex under construction at Kibubura Girls Secondary School, and Ibanda North West Ankole Diocese (INWAD) SACCO.
Archbishop Kaziimba concluded his engagements in the Diocese by meeting key diocesan leaders, urging them to remain faithful stewards of the resources entrusted to them by God.
In Ankole Diocese, Archbishop Kaziimba commended Bishop Mwesigwa for his visionary leadership that has led to the establishment of several transformative initiatives, including Revival Radio, Revival TV, Millennium SACCO, Revival Schools, Revival Coffee, and several commercial buildings in Mbarara City.
Bishop Mwesigwa also serves as the Dean of the Province of the Church of Uganda. As Dean, he is the most senior bishop and oversees the Province in the absence of the Archbishop.
While preaching during farewell services held at St Paul's Cathedral, Ibanda, on Saturday and St James Cathedral, Ruharo, on Sunday, Archbishop Kaziimba called for unity, particularly during the transition process.
He was also commended for his firm stand against homosexuality, his commitment to upholding biblical values, his role in clearing the Church House debt, and his visionary leadership of the House of Bishops through guidance on establishing projects aimed at ensuring diocesan self-sustainability.