Archbishop Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu of the Church of Uganda has called upon Anglican churches in Masindi Kitara Diocese to initiate income-generating ventures as a means to achieve financial sustainability. The Archbishop made this appeal during his farewell visit to the diocese on November 6, 2026, where he addressed a gathering of hundreds of residents, leaders, and clergy.
Groundbreaking for Three-Star Hotel
During the visit, Kaziimba presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for a three-star diocesan hotel, a project he believes will significantly boost the church's income. "As a church, we should have different income-generating activities because constantly begging is not sustainable. I am happy that we have had a groundbreaking for the three-star hotel for the diocese. This will help the church boost its income," he stated.
The Archbishop emphasized that the church must move away from a dependency mindset and instead harness its resources to create wealth. He noted that the hotel project is a step in the right direction and encouraged other dioceses to follow suit.
Capitalizing on AFCON Opportunities
Kaziimba also challenged the people of Masindi and the broader Bunyoro region to seize the business opportunities presented by the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). He pointed out that the tournament will attract numerous visitors who will require food, accommodation, and other services. "Many guests are going to come due to AFCON. They will need plenty of food, good hotels, and guesthouses. Let's stop lamenting about poverty when there are so many opportunities to tap into," he urged.
The Archbishop's call to action comes at a time when Uganda is preparing to host AFCON, which is expected to bring a surge in tourism and economic activity. He encouraged locals to invest in hospitality and agriculture to meet the demand.
Promoting Unity and Development
In addition to economic empowerment, Kaziimba stressed the importance of unity among the people. He urged leaders and residents to work together for the development of the region, emphasizing that collective effort is essential for progress.
The farewell visit was marked by a sense of optimism and determination. The Archbishop's message resonated with many attendees, who expressed their commitment to supporting the church's income-generating initiatives and leveraging the opportunities that lie ahead.
As the Church of Uganda continues to navigate financial challenges, Kaziimba's emphasis on self-reliance and entrepreneurship could signal a new era of sustainability for dioceses across the country. The Masindi Kitara Diocese's hotel project is poised to become a model for others to emulate.