The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) has partnered with Family Search International to digitize religious records in a move aimed at improving efficiency, preservation of information, and environmental protection.

Speaking to the media in Kampala, the IRCU Secretary General, Joshua Kitakule, said the initiative will save time, safeguard records for future generations, and reduce paper usage, thereby contributing to environmental conservation.

Kitakule explained that once the program is fully implemented, IRCU member institutions will be able to access birth and marriage certificates, as well as other relevant records, online.

He urged IRCU members to embrace digitalization and assured them that data privacy and protection will be strictly observed, in line with the law.

Meanwhile, Nicolas Akello, the Field Relations Manager at Family Search International, said religious institutions should not be left behind in the digital age, noting that they play a critical role in national development.

Akello added that religious bodies keep vital records such as the number of followers, married couples, baptized children, and other key demographic data, which are essential for planning and development.

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