Archbishop COU condemns rising corruption, urges repentance and action

17 April 2025, 9:35 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Rev. Dr Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu Mboowa, delivered his Easter Message for 2025 from his pastoral residence in Kampala. The message, under the theme “Jesus’ Resurrection, Our Hope for Eternity,” was drawn from 1 Corinthians 15:12–58 and Matthew 28:1–15, which recounts the story of the empty tomb.

In his address, the Archbishop emphasised the importance of environmental stewardship and commended the dioceses that actively participated in the recently concluded Environment Month. He also condemned the increasing levels of corruption in both public and private sectors, describing it as a moral crisis that must be addressed through repentance and decisive action. “Such acts are challenging because there are hospitals without medicine and schools in urgent need of renovation,” he said.

The Archbishop further expressed deep concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has led to an influx of refugees into Uganda. He called for urgent support, particularly for women and children, in the form of food, shelter, hygiene kits, and medical supplies.

Archbishop Kaziimba also highlighted significant milestones within the Church, including the launch of the Church of Uganda Strategic Planning Framework 2026–2030, which will guide diocesan and institutional planning across the Province. He commended Save the Mothers for two decades of dedicated service towards improving maternal and child health in Uganda.

Using the occasion to advocate for increased investment in the health sector, he urged the expedited implementation of a National Health Insurance Scheme. He concluded by extending Easter greetings to President Museveni, the First Lady, government leaders, and all Ugandans.

He also congratulated the Rt Rev. Gaster Nsereko, newly consecrated Bishop of West Buganda Diocese, and the Rev. Canon Joshua Kugonza, Bishop-Elect of Masindi Kitara Diocese.

In the same spirit, leaders in the transport sector have urged passengers to remain vigilant during this season, as many wrongdoers take advantage of the period to rob unsuspecting travellers.

Wamala Juma, Chairman of Namirembe Taxi Park, appealed to the public to use gazetted taxi parks in order to avoid falling victim to impostors. “We urge those planning to use public transport, especially taxis, to go to designated taxi parks. There are individuals who take advantage of the season to divert passengers and rob them,” he said.

Robert Sekitooleko, Vice Chairman of the New Taxi Park, also reminded passengers to clearly label their belongings. “If you are travelling with cargo, make sure you write your phone number on the item or place it on a piece of paper inside. As humans, we sometimes forget — and in case that happens, it will make it easier for us to locate and return your items,” he said.

Kayanja Ronald Mutuluuki IV, Vice Chairman of Bwaise Terminal, has confirmed that they are fully prepared to transport passengers to various destinations.

“As Bwaise Terminal, we assure the general public that we are ready to provide our transportation services. I want to make it clear that we are not going to increase fares, as we understand that many of our customers are facing financial difficulties, especially at this time. Therefore, they should have no concerns — instead, we encourage them to come and travel with us to their preferred destinations. Our drivers are fully licensed and qualified to ensure safe journeys,” he said.

He also urged drivers to avoid using unfamiliar routes in order to prevent accidents.