Equity Bank, CoU celebrate partnership with land title milestone
Equity Bank returns the Janani Luwum Church House land title to the Church of Uganda after successful loan repayment.
KAMPALA | In a significant milestone, the Church of Uganda has reclaimed the land title for the Janani Luwum Church House from Equity Bank Uganda after successfully repaying a loan used to construct the 14-story commercial building in Kampala's city centre.
The ceremony, held on the sidelines of the Provincial Assembly at Uganda Christian University, Mukono, was attended by all 39 Bishops and over 200 delegates from dioceses across the Church.
The event marked more than a formal handover; it was a celebration of a flourishing partnership between the Church and Equity Bank.
Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu expressed deep gratitude to Equity Bank for its unwavering support throughout the project.
Fourteen years ago, the Church of Uganda, seeking to expand its revenue base and enhance its capacity to fund various social and religious activities, approached Equity Bank for a USD 17 million (Shs65 billion) loan.
The funds were allocated to the construction of the 14-story commercial building—an ambitious and strategically significant project for the Church’s long-term sustainability.
During the handover ceremony, Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu expressed deep gratitude to Equity Bank for its unwavering support throughout the project.
“We embarked on this journey with faith, knowing that this partnership would not only enable us to achieve our goals but also empower us to continue our mission of serving our communities.
Equity Bank's Executive Director Elizabeth Mwerinde Kasedde hands over a dummy land title to Archbishop Kazimba
Today, we stand here with immense pride, having fulfilled our financial obligations, and we are grateful to Equity Bank for believing in our vision,” Archbishop Kaziimba said.
He highlighted the success of the commercial building, noting that it will generate significant revenue for the Church, which will be reinvested in various community and Church-led initiatives across Uganda.
Speaking at the event, Equity Bank's Executive Director, Elizabeth Mwerinde Kasedde, emphasised the bank’s commitment to supporting development projects that have a positive impact on society.
“Today is a testament to what can be achieved when there is trust and collaboration between institutions," Ms Mwerinde remarked.
"The Church of Uganda has been a reliable partner, and we are honoured to have played a role in this significant achievement. The successful completion and repayment of this loan is a clear indication of the Church’s dedication to its mission and financial stewardship."
She also hinted at ongoing and future collaborations, revealing that the bank is currently funding several other Church-led projects aimed at improving education, healthcare, and social services in underserved areas.
“The Church of Uganda has always been at the forefront of societal development, and we are proud to continue supporting its initiatives. Our partnership goes beyond financial transactions; it is about transforming lives and communities and building a future for all Ugandans,” she added.
The relationship between the Church of Uganda and Equity Bank exemplifies a successful partnership between a religious institution and a financial entity, with both working towards common growth and development goals.
The handover of the land title marks the completion of one chapter in a broader narrative of collaboration that continues to thrive.
The 14-story building, now fully owned by the Church of Uganda, stands as a testament to what can be achieved through vision, faith, and collaboration.
It symbolises the Church’s enduring commitment to self-sufficiency and community service, made possible through a strong and trusting relationship with Equity Bank.
