The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has urged churches and public gatherings to exercise vigilance by reporting any suspicious individuals in their congregations.
He emphasized the need for security checks at the entrances of churches to prevent any disruptions during prayers.
Archbishop Kaziimba made this plea during a Holy Communion service at Patongo Church of Uganda in Agago District, within the Diocese of Kitgum this afternoon.
“As you may have heard, the President of Uganda has advised us to remain vigilant in our congregations. It is crucial that we stay extra cautious. When new members join your congregation, don’t just celebrate the growth in numbers; take the time to gather details about each new member,” Archbishop Kaziimba stated.
The Archbishop’s call comes in response to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s recent disclosure that places of worship are potential targets for enemies. Consequently, he has ordered increased security measures in these locations.
Archbishop Kaziimba appealed to the government to intervene in the Apaa land conflict to ensure peace and stability among the Madi and Acholi communities.
He also requested the Uganda Wildlife Authority to devise strategies for preventing wild animals, particularly elephants from Kidepo National Park, from encroaching on neighboring communities and damaging their crops.
The Archbishop said that he received reports from the Dioceses of Kitgum, Soroti, Sebei, and Kumi, indicating that the Karamojongs have been raiding their cattle and causing harm to people.
“I have been informed of regrettable incidents of cattle raiding by our brothers and sisters from Karamoja. I have asked the Dioceses of Karamoja and North Karamoja to sensitize the people in the Karamoja region, focusing on mindset change and work attitudes,” Archbishop Kaziimba said.
Currently on his Pastoral Visit in the Diocese of Kitgum, the Archbishop is scheduled to visit Lamwo District tomorrow (Saturday), where he will visit a refugee camp before the main service. On Sunday, he will visit Pader District, followed by Kitgum District on Monday.
