On October 5, 2026, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni fulfilled his pledge of UGX 50 million to Rev. Dr. Narcisio Bagumisiriza, author of "African Customary and Christian Marriages Compared." The money was delivered by Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi, who represented the President at the book's launch in April 2024. This act demonstrates President Museveni's commitment to honouring his pledges.
Speaking on the President's behalf, Minister Musasizi recalled Fr. Bagumisiriza's historical ties with President Museveni and the Uganda Patriotic Movement (UPM). Fr. Bagumisiriza was among the first people to welcome Museveni when he challenged the UPC government in the 1980 elections. He later supported and mobilized for the National Resistance Movement (NRM). Minister Musasizi stated that the fulfilled pledge is a reminder that President Museveni does not forget his historical people.
Minister Musasizi encouraged others waiting for presidential pledges, stating that the President honours his commitments in due course. He mentioned that he met with President Museveni a few days prior to delivering the package to Fr. Bagumisiriza. The Minister urged Fr. Bagumisiriza to use the money to improve the social and economic wellbeing of people around him and to share the Government's message of helping communities move from subsistence living into the money economy.
Fr. Bagumisiriza developed the idea for his book while pursuing his PhD in Rome. The book explores the relationship between African customary marriage and Christian marriage, aiming to help unmarried Africans, particularly Christians, understand the harmony between the two traditions. He intends to encourage people to embrace formal marriage, especially Christian marriage, citing that it addresses uncertainties with Jesus Christ at its centre.
Fr. Bagumisiriza thanked President Museveni for keeping his promise and for agreeing to be the chief guest at the book launch. He expressed gratitude for Minister Musasizi representing the President at the launch. The book was launched at Christ the King Parish in Kampala and is available in several bookshops for UGX 20,000. Copies can also be obtained from Fr. Bagumisiriza's office at Katigondo National Major Seminary.
Fr. Bagumisiriza was ordained as a Priest in the Kabale Diocese on April 23, 1978. His academic background includes a Diploma in Philosophy from Makerere University and a doctorate of philosophy in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University. He currently serves as General Spiritual Director and lecturer at Katigondo National Major Seminary, in Masaka City.
The fulfilled pledge and book launch highlight the intersection of faith, culture, and community development in Uganda. President Museveni's gesture underscores his administration's commitment to supporting initiatives that promote social and economic progress. Fr. Bagumisiriza's work aims to provide guidance on marriage and relationships, reflecting his dedication to serving his community.
Key points
- President Museveni fulfils UGX 50 million pledge for Rev. Dr. Narcisio Bagumisiriza's book on African customary and Christian marriages.
- The book aims to help unmarried Africans understand the harmony between African customary marriage and Christian marriage.
- Fr. Bagumisiriza was ordained as a Priest in the Kabale Diocese on April 23, 1978.
