Namirembe – The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Rt Rev. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has called on Ugandans to remain steadfast in faith and work towards unity, stability, and peace, as the country marks Easter celebrations.
Delivering his 2026 Easter message on Thursaday at the Provincial Secretariat, the Archbishop described Easter as the most significant event in the Christian faith as he challenged believers to reflect deeply on their faith in Christ as “the resurrection and the life.”
Anchoring his message on the Church of Uganda’s 2026 theme, “Anchored in Christ for Unity, Stability and Peace,” drawn from Ephesians 2:14–17, Archbishop Kaziimba underscored the importance of reconciliation among individuals and communities. He noted that Christ’s death and resurrection broke down barriers that divide humanity, calling on Christians to promote harmony and peaceful coexistence.
The Archbishop revealed that religious leaders, under the Inter Religious Council of Uganda, have been actively involved in reconciliation efforts following the recent general elections. He said these engagements have yielded encouraging results and urged all citizens to take collective responsibility in preserving national unity.
“Uganda does not belong to any single political party; it belongs to all of us,” he stated, emphasizing the need for shared responsibility in safeguarding the country’s peace.
He also highlighted Uganda’s continued role in hosting over two million refugees, describing it as a testament to the country’s compassion and solidarity. Drawing from his recent visit to Nakivaale Refugee Settlement in Isingiro District, the Archbishop called for sustained efforts in addressing human suffering and promoting stability in the region.
On the international front, Archbishop Kaziimba spoke about his participation in the Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON G26) held in Abuja, Nigeria, which brought together Anglican leaders from across the world. He noted key developments, including the transition of the GAFCON Primates Council into the Global Anglican Council, aimed at strengthening governance and unity within the global Anglican Communion.
Turning to social challenges, the Archbishop raised concern over rising drug and substance abuse among Ugandan youth, citing alarming statistics indicating widespread exposure among adolescents. He announced the launch of a Drug Prevention Training Manual by the Church of Uganda to guide schools, parents, and religious leaders in addressing the crisis.
“Let Christ be their anchor, not drugs,” he urged, calling for collective action to safeguard the future of young people.
On environmental conservation, he reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to planting 15 million trees across the country, encouraging dioceses to actively participate in restoring the environment and mitigating climate change effects.
The Archbishop also highlighted ongoing development initiatives, including the expansion of the Church of Uganda’s Lweza Training and Conference Centre and the rollout of a Management Information System to improve efficiency and accountability. He commended government support, including a financial pledge delivered through the Vice President towards church development projects.
In his concluding remarks, Archbishop Kaziimba extended Easter blessings to national leaders, including President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, members of the judiciary, security forces, and religious communities across denominations.
He called on all Ugandans to embrace the message of Easter by trusting in Christ and living in unity.
“This Easter, may we all remain anchored in Christ for unity, stability and peace,” he said, “knowing that through His resurrection, we are called to live in harmony and find lasting strength in Him.”
