Babalanda Urges Moral Renewal and Grassroots Unity as Fr. Musana Marks 25 Years in Priesthood

JINJA — Minister for the Presidency and Budiope West Member of Parliament, Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, has called for a renewed partnership between religious institutions and political leadership to strengthen Uganda’s moral foundation, accelerate development and improve service delivery. She made the appeal while presiding over the silver jubilee celebration of Rev. Fr. Anthony Musana’s 25 years of priestly ministry at Wansimba Parish Pastoral Council in Namagera Town Council, Jinja District.

The celebration, held under the theme, “The Favours of the Lord I Will Recall” from Isaiah 63:7, brought together religious leaders, government officials, political figures and hundreds of Christians from Busoga and neighbouring areas. Babalanda conveyed greetings from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Janet Kataha Museveni, and the Office of the President before congratulating Fr. Musana on reaching the remarkable milestone.

She praised Fr. Musana for dedicating his life to God’s service, describing his ministry as a source of hope, guidance and inspiration to countless believers. The minister also recognised the priest’s family for nurturing him with strong Christian values, saying their commitment reflected the biblical teaching that children raised in the right way remain steadfast throughout their lives.

According to Babalanda, religious leaders remain indispensable in shaping disciplined and responsible citizens who reject corruption, embrace honesty and promote peaceful coexistence. She noted that faith communities continue to provide platforms for reconciliation, dialogue and healing, especially during periods of political or social tension, making them vital partners in nation-building.
The minister challenged both leaders and citizens to confront corruption with courage, warning that unethical conduct continues to undermine public confidence and slow the delivery of government services. She appealed to clergy to continue preaching integrity and accountability, saying moral transformation is essential for Uganda’s long-term social and economic progress.

Addressing household incomes, Babalanda encouraged families to embrace the Four-Acre Model as a practical solution to poverty while taking advantage of government initiatives such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga and the GROW Programme. She said these interventions are designed to create wealth, improve livelihoods and empower communities to become economically self-reliant.
With the Local Council elections nearing completion, the minister urged wananchi to rally behind National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearers, arguing that effective leadership at the village level is critical for security, implementation of government programmes and improved service delivery. She also appealed to leaders across Busoga to unite in ensuring that every household benefits from national development initiatives.

Rev. Fr. Anthony Musana expressed gratitude to Hon. Babalanda for accepting to officiate at his silver jubilee celebration and commended her dedication to public service and mobilisation. He described her as a loyal, patriotic and committed NRM leader. The event was attended by Justice Batema Ndikabona, Deputy Clerk to Parliament Hon. Kintu, Hon. Peace Tibyaze, Hon. Hussein Muyonjo, Hon. Moses Walyomu, Hon. Namatovu Masitula, Ambassador Stephen Mubiru, Rev. Fr. Mwase, other local leaders and a large congregation of faithful from across the Busoga sub-region.