President Museveni has commended the longstanding partnership between the Church and government, describing it as critical to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.
In remarks delivered on his behalf by State Minister for Economic Monitoring Beatrice Akello Akori, the President made the comments during the official opening and dedication of the Life Restoration Ministries sanctuary in Nansana.
Museveni noted that while the Church’s primary mandate is spiritual guidance, it has also played a significant role in advancing community development.
“While the most obvious task of the Church is the spiritual well-being of the people, it has also participated in carrying out developmental projects focused on enhancing the well-being of communities,” he said.
He urged religious leaders to encourage believers to balance spiritual growth with practical responsibilities.
“We are a colony of heaven on earth… This truth implores Christians to be concerned with the affairs of the earth as they prepare for the heavenly kingdom,” the President’s message read, referencing the Bible.
The President emphasised the importance of economic participation at household level, calling on religious institutions to promote income-generating activities among their followers.
“All believers should take the example of Jesus Christ, who… was also a carpenter. He earned his bread,” he said.
“Religious leaders should use their pulpits to encourage believers to work towards poverty eradication.”
He reiterated the government’s focus on wealth creation, citing investments in infrastructure and social services as a foundation for development.
“Development alone is not enough; though it must come first. Development is a collective good, but wealth and jobs belong to individuals, families, groups or companies,” he said.
Museveni also called for greater inclusion of households still engaged in subsistence farming.
“We should not have spectators in the drive towards increasing household incomes. The remaining 33 percent… must be mobilised to join the money economy.”
He highlighted four key sectors for wealth and job creation: commercial agriculture, industrialisation, services, and ICT.
The President praised Kenneth Kato Mwesigwa for spearheading the construction of the sanctuary, describing it as a milestone in building the Church.
He also recognised Robert Kayanja for promoting unity and strengthening relations between Pentecostal churches and the government.
The President contributed Shs30 million towards the project.
Pastor Kayanja, in his remarks, expressed gratitude for the President’s leadership.
“We thank God for the way He has used you to bring harmony, peace and security in Uganda,” he said.
Pastor Mwesigwa also welcomed the government’s support and reaffirmed the Church’s broader mission.
“We are truly grateful… for the freedom of worship,” he said.
“Our mission goes beyond spiritual nourishment to include community outreach, youth empowerment, and charitable initiatives.”
The event underscored the continued collaboration between faith-based institutions and the state in addressing both spiritual and socio-economic needs.
Officials noted that such partnerships remain vital in mobilising communities toward development and improving livelihoods across the country.
