Over 4,500 young individuals converged for the 15th West Ankole Diocese Youth and Students Convention in a vibrant display of faith and community, . The event kicked off with a call for responsible living at St Peter’s Cathedral Bweranyangi in Bushenyi District, setting the tone for a four-day gathering filled with prayer, guidance, and fellowship.
Youth, constituting over 70 percent of Uganda’s 46 million population, received cautionary messages from West Ankole Diocese Bishop Rt Rev Johnson Twinomujuni. Embracing the theme, “Conforming to the Word, Not the Patterns of the World!” Bishop Twinomujuni urged the young participants to resist worldly pleasures such as alcoholism and sexual promiscuity. He emphasized the importance of living in accordance with the word of God and being mindful of the resources invested by their families and country.
“People have made contributions like the technology you are using today, like computers and the internet, but as you live, ask yourself what would your family or community lose if you were not born,” remarked Bishop Twinomujuni, encouraging the youth to reflect on their purpose.
Addressing the challenges of unemployment, the bishop appealed to teenagers to be open-minded and proactive. He highlighted the opportunities provided by the government for job creation and encouraged the youth to tap into every available avenue.
Rev Canon Bethel Namara, the West Ankole secretary, shared insights into the convention’s history, stating that it commenced in 2007 with the goal of nurturing and strengthening the youth within the church in West Ankole. She highlighted the positive outcomes of past conventions, including the emergence of priests and numerous youth actively serving the church in various capacities.
Bright Niwaha, the West Ankole Diocesan communication and information officer, outlined the diverse activities planned for the convention. Workshops on creative talks and counseling, games and sports activities, and talent shows were among the engaging opportunities designed to enhance the participants’ experience.
