Housing State Minister Persis Namuganza, addressing the Balokole, also known as Born-Again Christians, has emphasised the importance of unity within their community. Speaking at the consecration of four Bishops under the Born-Again Faith in Uganda, Namuganza highlighted the potential for growth and development when the Born-Again fraternity remains united.
Referencing Genesis 37: 12-36, Namuganza warned against internal divisions, stressing that disunity provides an opportunity for external adversaries to thrive. She urged the Balokole to avoid unnecessary conflicts, stating that progress can only be achieved through unity. Namuganza further noted that a united group is more accessible for collaboration with both the government and development partners.
Namuganza, who also serves as Namutumba district’s Bukono Member of Parliament, delivered these remarks as the chief guest at the consecration ceremony held at Busoga Square in Jinja City. The event, presided over by Dr Joseph Sserwada, the head of Victory Christian Church and presiding Apostle of the Born-Again Faith in Uganda, saw the consecration of four Bishops.
During her speech, Namuganza expressed the government’s interest in monitoring the activities of various religions, including churches, as their actions, such as conducting weddings, are seen as being on behalf of the government.
Dr Joseph Sserwada commended the government and President Yoweri Museveni for recognizing the Born-Again Faith. He highlighted that, before the president’s acknowledgment in 2006, certain forces opposed their registration as a religion, causing them to be registered as non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or companies.
Sserwada, also a co-chair of the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU), revealed that joining the council was on the advice of the President. He acknowledged the significant growth and strengthened leadership of the Born-Again Faith since being officially recognized.
The consecration ceremony appointed Geoffrey Waako for Jinja City, Paul Wandera for Jinja District, Philemon Wafula for Buyende District, and Andrew Wambi of Bugweri as bishops. Each bishop was consecrated alongside an assistant bishop.
Frank Tibagendeka, the Busoga Regional Bishop, advised the newly installed bishops to serve as role models, promoting peace, transparency, hard work, faithfulness, and discouraging vices like corruption and extramarital relationships.
