Museveni Contributes 50 Million Ugandan Shilling To Mbarara Church Founded By His Mother

By Kundu Ronald

Mbarara, Uganda - September 3, 2023

President Yoweri Museveni has made a remarkable gesture of goodwill by contributing 50 million Ugandan shillings towards the finalization of the Emmanuel Church of Uganda in Rwenkanja, located in Kashari County, Mbarara district. This generous donation reflects the President's commitment to community development and the preservation of cultural and historical landmarks.

The Emmanuel Church of Uganda has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1965 by the late Esteri Kokundeka. Alongside the church, the Esteri Kokundeka Memorial Primary and Secondary School were founded, both of which have played pivotal roles in education and social transformation within the local community.

Esteri Kokundeka's visionary decision to start the church under the shade of a eucalyptus tree, using drums to gather Christians for worship, is still remembered fondly. It represents a symbol of resilience and faith that has endured for generations.

The announcement of President Museveni's contribution came during a vibrant fundraising event organized to secure the church's completion. Vice President Jessica Alupo, accompanied by her husband Peter Aine, presented the generous donation to the congregation. In her address, she praised Kokundeka's foresight and emphasized the pivotal role of education in societal progress.

Vice President Alupo assured the assembly that the government, under President Museveni's leadership, is committed to maintaining peace and security. Moreover, it will continue expanding access to essential amenities such as education, electricity, water, and healthcare.

To achieve these goals, the government has allocated one billion Ugandan shillings to every district for community road improvements and plans to construct health facilities and hospitals to better serve the population.

Encouraging believers to engage in government livelihood programs like Emyooga, women's funds, youth livelihood, and the Parish Development Model, Alupo highlighted their importance in advancing the population into the formal economy.

Rev. Canon Nathan Bob Mwesigye, the Dean of Ankole Diocese, paid tribute to the late Kokundeka's dedication to preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ despite the challenges of traveling long distances.

Mbarara District Woman MP, Margaret Rwebyambo, stressed the significance of preserving Kokundeka's legacy by expanding the church and establishing government-aided primary and secondary schools. She commended the Kokundeka schools for producing high-achieving students and appealed to the government to construct a health center within the vicinity, as the nearest facility is a considerable 8 kilometers away in Rubaya.

Mbarara District LC5 chairman, Deus Tabaro, urged the government to allocate funds for the construction of new district headquarters in Bwizibwera, estimated to cost one billion Ugandan shillings. He also called for immediate attention to the water scarcity issue in the district, exacerbated by the dwindling of River Rwizi.

The generous contribution of 50 million Ugandan shillings from President Museveni, coupled with the dedication of government officials and community leaders, underscores the commitment to improving the lives of the local population and preserving the legacy of Esteri Kokundeka. As the Emmanuel Church of Uganda nears completion, it stands as a symbol of faith, community, and progress for all to cherish.