The Head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), Col. Edith Nakalema Asizua, has called upon the youth in Kasese District to safeguard peace and security, which she said the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government has sustained for the past four decades.
“Christianity teaches us that true peace is not merely the absence of trouble, but wholeness and a right relationship with God. Keep peace and stability in your country, starting with your homes,” Col. Nakalema said.
She made the remarks on Friday, January 9, 2026, while officiating as the chief guest at the Youth Convention of South Rwenzori Diocese held at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Kasese District. The convention, held under the theme “Anchored in Christ for Unity, Stability and Peace,” attracted more than 10,000 youths.
Col. Nakalema emphasized that from a Christian perspective, true security is not found in wealth, power, or human systems, but in belonging to Christ.
“Jesus assures believers that they are held securely by God and cannot be separated from His love. Christians find security in being children of God—loved and valued not for their achievements, but by His grace,” she noted.
She encouraged young people to remain steadfast in faith, citing the example of her late father, Rev. Eriasafu Sserwadda, whose strong faith helped him overcome challenges and succeed in life.
“My father had deep faith in Jesus. He always did what was right and obeyed authority. My siblings and I are serving the nation because he raised us with strong values and faith,” she said.
“He taught us to believe in Christ and often told us that we would one day dine with kings and queens. I have served and continue to serve H.E. the President, who also visited my father years before he passed on. His life changed after that visit.”
Col. Nakalema also informed the youth that President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, recognize the critical role young people play in national development. She noted that this is why government continues to empower them through initiatives such as the Presidential Skilling Project.
“What I have seen here today is amazing. I thank the Bishop for organizing this gathering. The large number of youths present is a strong statement. You are our investors, and your investments will transform lives in Uganda,” she said.
“H.E. the President and Maama Janet prioritize young people. They know I am here, and everything they plan is for your future.”
Drawing from Ephesians 6:17 (NIV), which says, “Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,” Col. Nakalema explained that salvation is key to security, peace, and protection.
“All you need is to put on the helmet of salvation. Our Lord Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the Commander of salvation,” she advised.
She also cautioned the youth about the negative effects of the information age, particularly the misuse of modern technology.
“Be careful about the information you consume. Choose what is right and beneficial for you,” she warned.
Additionally, Col. Nakalema highlighted the importance of personal values such as obedience, teamwork, readiness, flexibility, and time management in shaping a successful future.
“Obey your leaders, work as a team, and always be ready to face challenges. Be flexible and willing to change for the better. Value time because lost time never comes back. If you embrace these principles, Uganda will move forward,” she said.
The Bishop of South Rwenzori Diocese, Rt. Rev. Nason Baluku, welcomed Col. Nakalema to Kasese and thanked her for her continued contribution to Uganda’s development.
“Thank you for joining us and inspiring the youth,” Bishop Baluku said. He also prayed for Uganda’s stability and for President Museveni’s health and success in the forthcoming elections.
“I pray that all of you put on the helmet of salvation,” he added.
