The Archdiocese of Masaka has initiated a fundraising drive to collect over Shs1.5 billion for the completion of the Archbishop Joseph Kiwanuka Empowerment Centre. This centre is being built in honour of Archbishop Joseph Kiwanuka Nakabaale, the first Black African Catholic bishop and archbishop south of the Sahara. The centre's establishment is part of the preparations for the centenary celebrations of his episcopate, which will take place from 1939 to 2039.
The fundraising campaign was announced earlier this year by Rt. Rev. Severus Jjumba, the Ordinary of Masaka Diocese. He highlighted the significance of preserving and celebrating Archbishop Kiwanuka's contributions to the development of the Church and society. Archbishop Kiwanuka played a crucial role in advancing education, healthcare, social development, and the growth of the Catholic Church in Masaka.
Among the initiatives associated with Archbishop Kiwanuka's legacy is the introduction of cooperatives, such as Obwavu Mpologoma, aimed at improving local communities' livelihoods. He also supported education by seeking scholarships and promoted healthcare services development, including Kitovu Hospital and Villa Maria Hospital. Furthermore, his efforts contributed to infrastructure expansion and social services improvement in the region.
The centre will serve as a lasting tribute to Archbishop Kiwanuka's legacy and his contribution to the spiritual, educational, health, and socio-economic transformation of communities in Uganda. As part of the campaign, Masaka Diocese, in partnership with the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has organised a fundraising dinner at Sheraton Kampala Hotel.
The dinner brings together friends, well-wishers, religious leaders, members of the business community, and other supporters of Masaka Diocese to officially launch the fundraising campaign and mobilise resources towards the completion of the empowerment centre. This event aims to raise awareness about the importance of the centre and garner support from various stakeholders.
Archbishop Kiwanuka's initiatives helped transform Masaka Diocese into an important centre of Catholic faith, education, and socio-economic development. The diocese believes that the empowerment centre will have a lasting impact on the community, providing a platform for education, skills development, and economic empowerment.
The fundraising drive is a significant step towards completing the Archbishop Joseph Kiwanuka Empowerment Centre, which will serve as a testament to his enduring legacy. The centre is expected to benefit the local community and contribute to the socio-economic development of the region.
Key points
- Masaka Diocese has launched a Shs1.5 billion fundraising campaign for the Archbishop Joseph Kiwanuka Empowerment Centre.
- The centre is being established in honour of Archbishop Joseph Kiwanuka Nakabaale, the first Black African Catholic bishop and archbishop south of the Sahara.
- The fundraising drive aims to complete the centre, which will serve as a lasting tribute to Archbishop Kiwanuka's legacy and contribution to the development of Uganda.
