By Ambrose Kweronda
www.mknewslink.com
In Kabale—
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has challenged the Church to establish more income-generating projects to support its activities and contribute to the economic well-being of its leaders and the communities they serve.
The President, who was the chief guest at the Episcopal ordination and installation of Rt. Rev. Bonaventure Bosco Gubazire as the fifth Bishop of Kabale Diocese on Saturday, made the remarks in a message delivered by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Henry Ariganyira Musasizi, at St. Ignatius University-Kabale (IGUKA) in Kabale Municipality.
He emphasized the need for people to work hard and liberate their families from poverty by participating in government programmes aimed at promoting prosperity for all, as well as skilling programmes for the youth.
He said that in the current times, the Church works hand in hand with the faithful to improve its services and the livelihoods of the people it leads. He urged all religious leaders to embrace this approach in order to develop the communities in which they have been planted.
He paid special tribute to Rt. Rev. Callistus Rubaramira for serving the diocese with discipline and vision, and congratulated Rt. Rev. Bonaventure Bosco on his elevation to Bishop of Kabale Diocese.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni commended the Catholic Church for its contribution to Uganda’s social and economic transformation, particularly through its role in education, health, community development and other social services.
The President challenged the new Bishop to promote a Gospel that encourages wealth creation, self-reliance and economic development among Christians.
He said the Church has an important role to play in encouraging communities to embrace productive activities that can improve household incomes and contribute to the development of both the Church and the country.
Hon. Enid Atuheire Origumisiriza, Woman Member of Parliament for Kabale District; Hon. Maj. Gen. Jim Muhwezi, Minister of Security; Hon. Grace Ngabirano Akifeza, Woman Member of Parliament for Kisoro District; Presidential Advisor on Agriculture and Local People, Peace Rugambwa, Ndorwa West MP Eliab Naturinda Mporera and Hon. Protazio Begumisa, Member of Parliament for Ndorwa East County in Kabale District, have pledged to work together with the new Bishop in the fight against poverty and corruption.
The leaders said that, as leaders, they will cooperate with the Bishop and the government to promote development in the region.
They also encouraged the public to actively participate in government programs and called upon the new Bishop to cooperate with them and the government in serving the community.
The leaders further thanked the outgoing Bishop, Rt. Rev. Callist Rubaramira, for the legacy he has left in Kabale Diocese.