On October 29, 2026, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of Uganda urged the Church of Uganda and other religious institutions to promote socio-economic transformation, moral uprightness, and household wealth creation. He emphasized the importance of combining spiritual guidance with practical efforts to improve livelihoods. This call was made through a message delivered by Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, Minister for the Presidency, during the 141st commemoration of Bishop James Hannington at Kyando Village in Mayuge District.
The commemoration marked the life, faith, and sacrifice of the Anglican missionary who was martyred in Uganda in 1885. President Museveni expressed pleasure in being invited to join the faithful on this significant occasion and thanked the Church of Uganda, the organizing committee, and the people of Busoga for keeping Bishop Hannington's legacy alive. He noted that the commemoration was not only an opportunity to reflect on a historical event but also a moment to draw enduring lessons from Bishop Hannington's life and death.
Bishop Hannington first led a group of missionaries from England to Uganda in 1882, but the journey was marked by numerous challenges, including hostile encounters, wild animals, insects, sickness, and other difficult conditions. After recovering his health, he prepared for a second journey to Uganda in 1885, accompanied by fellow missionaries, including William Jones. However, they encountered difficulties as they approached Lake Victoria, leading to their detention.
President Museveni explained that Bishop Hannington and his colleagues were held hostage for some time while making their way to Uganda because his motives were not clearly understood by the Kabaka. He was mistaken for being Buganda's enemy and was eventually killed on October 29, 1885, on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II, through Busoga Chief Luba. The President said the sacrifice of Bishop Hannington and other Christian martyrs laid an important foundation for the growth of Christianity and continued to provide inspiration to believers.
The President drew a connection between the Bishop Hannington commemoration and Uganda Martyrs Day, observed annually on June 3. He noted that the lives of those who died for their faith demonstrate extraordinary commitment, courage, and total surrender to God. President Museveni urged Christians to emulate the exemplary conduct of the early believers and use their faith to guide younger generations towards responsible, disciplined, and morally upright lives.
President Museveni commended the Church of Uganda and other faith-based organizations for their longstanding contribution to Uganda's social and economic development. He observed that religious institutions have played a significant role in expanding access to education, improving public health, and strengthening the moral fabric of society. The President appreciated the continued service of churches and other religious organizations in rural communities, where access to essential services remains a challenge.
President Museveni appealed to the Church of Uganda to continue partnering with the Government in promoting socio-economic transformation, particularly by encouraging Christians to embrace wealth-creation programs such as Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), Emyooga, and the Parish Development Model (PDM). He emphasized that Uganda's development requires a coordinated effort involving Government, religious institutions, cultural leaders, the private sector, and civil society.
Key points
- President Museveni urges Church of Uganda to promote wealth creation alongside gospel.
- The President commends Church of Uganda for its contribution to Uganda's social and economic development.
- President Museveni appeals to Church of Uganda to partner with Government in promoting socio-economic transformation.
