Lira City– The Archbishop of Church of Uganda, The Most Rev Dr Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has disclosed that the Church is in advanced stages of establishing a Provident Fund to support retired Bishops and Clergy.
He made the revelation today in an exclusive media interview in Lira City where he is on official pastoral visit, following the conclusion of a three-day retreat at Lweza Training and Conference Center in Kampala.
The retreat, held from Tuesday to Thursday this week, brought together 33 retired Bishops, 26 Maamas and 9 widows of Bishops.
Archbishop Kaziimba said the Fund is urgently needed, given the growing number of retired Bishops and Clergy who face significant health and financial challenges in retirement. He particularly highlighted the lack of insurance coverage for people above 70, which leaves most retired Bishops without health protection.
“At the moment, no insurance company is willing to offer insurance to people above 70. Most of our retired Bishops and Clergy fall into that category. One of them is 94 years old. We have already identified some partners to support the Fund’s establishment.” Archbishop Kaziimba said.
During the retreat, Mengo Hospital organized a medical camp, offering screenings, consultations, and treatment for non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
“We were honoured to have Mengo Hospital offer free medical services. I thank Dr. Simon Nsiingo, Mengo’s Medical Director, and Prof William Lumu, a senior NCD specialist, for leading the camp and providing valuable health education especially on the need for physical exercises.” Archbishop Kaziimba said.
According to Archbishop Kaziimba, the retreat provided time for retired Bishops and widows to reflect, share ministry experiences, and encourage one another.
He urged all Dioceses to initiate income-generating projects to support their retired Bishops and widows. He also acknowledged the support provided by ministry partners including Mr. Zakayo Kwebiiha and several others who opted for anonymity that offered packages to retired Bishops and Bishops’ widows during the retreat.
Rt Rev Assoc Prof Fred Sheldon Mwesigwa, the Bishop of Ankole Diocese and Dean of the Province of Church of Uganda led daily Morning Devotions during the retreat and officially closed the retreat.
Church of Uganda currently has 53 retired Bishops, 23 widows and 2 widowers.
