By Muhimbise George
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has delivered President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s message urging stronger collaboration between the Church and the Government in driving Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.
Tayebwa represented the President at the closing ceremony of the Western Uganda Anglican Bishops and their Spouses Conference held at St. James Cathedral, Ruharo in Mbarara
The five-day conference brought together serving and retired bishops and their spouses from 15 dioceses across Western Uganda.In the President’s message, which Tayebwa read to the congregation, Museveni praised the Church as a “central pillar in Uganda’s development,” acknowledging its contributions to moral guidance as well as investments in education and health.
He applauded the unity exhibited by the dioceses and commended the inclusion of bishops’ spouses, noting the growing influence of women in leadership.The President further urged the Church to intensify its participation in national development efforts, especially in the four key pillars of wealth creation—commercial agriculture, industry, services, and ICT.
He emphasized that coordinated efforts between the Government and religious institutions would accelerate Uganda’s journey toward socio-economic liberation and poverty reduction.
Reflecting on the event, Tayebwa said it was a blessing to pray alongside spiritual leaders, adding that political and civic leaders have much to learn from the Church’s culture of respecting and drawing wisdom from predecessors.He congratulated Prof. Rt. Rev. Sheldon Mwesigwa, Bishop of Ankole Diocese, upon assuming his new role as chairperson of the association of Western Uganda Anglican Bishops and Spouses.
Tayebwa also thanked outgoing chairperson Rt. Rev. Onesmus Asiimwe, Bishop of North Kigezi Diocese, for his dedicated service and leadership.