The Archbishop of Kampala, His Grace Paul Ssemogerere, has officially launched this year’s Peace Month, calling on Ugandans to embrace prayer, social reconciliation and a renewed commitment to building a just and nonviolent society.

Speaking at Lubaga Cathedral this morning, Archbishop Ssemogerere expressed concern over the increasing levels of violence and violations of human rights, particularly against suspects, prisoners and within families.

He said the persistent violation of human rights and human dignity, both in Uganda and around the world, makes it necessary for the Catholic Church to use the month of September to remind communities of the importance of justice, peace and respect for human dignity.

Archbishop Ssemogerere urged everyone to become an ambassador of justice and peace, beginning at home and extending the values of peace to neighbours, communities and society at large.

The Peace Month activities are being coordinated by the Justice and Peace Department of the Kampala Archdiocese, headed by Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Sitakange.

According to the organisers, a series of activities will be held throughout September. The programme will officially begin on September 1 at Gayaza Parish, with activities centred on environmental conservation and a clean environment.

On September 8, the Archdiocese will host the Benedicto Kiwanuka Memorial Lecture at Pope Paul Memorial Hotel in Ndeeba. The chief guest will be the Archbishop Emeritus of Gulu, John Baptist Odama.

On September 11, prayers will be held for victims and survivors of human trafficking. A Peace Run around Lubaga Hill will follow on September 19, before the month is officially crowned on September 30 at Kyengera Parish with Holy Mass and an exhibition organised by refugees.

This year’s Peace Month is being held under the theme: “Peace be with you all: Unarmed and Disarming Peace.”

The Church says the month is intended to inspire individuals and communities to reject violence, promote reconciliation and actively contribute to building a culture of justice and lasting peace.

By Gideon P Ssebulime