Masaka Diocese has launched a fundraising campaign to raise more than Shs1.5 billion towards the completion of the Archbishop Joseph Kiwanuka Empowerment Centre in Kitovu, Masaka.
The centre is being established in honour of Archbishop Joseph Kiwanuka Nakabaale, the first Black African Catholic bishop and archbishop south of the Sahara. The initiative forms part of preparations to commemorate the centenary of his episcopate, from 1939 to 2039.
The fundraising drive was announced earlier this year by the Ordinary of Masaka Diocese, Rt. Rev. Severus Jjumba, who emphasized the importance of preserving and celebrating Archbishop Kiwanuka’s contribution to the development of the Church and society.
Bishop Jjumba said Archbishop Kiwanuka played a significant role in advancing education, healthcare, social development and the growth of the Catholic Church in Masaka.
Among the initiatives associated with Archbishop Kiwanuka’s legacy was the introduction of cooperatives, including Obwavu Mpologoma, aimed at improving the livelihoods of local communities. He also supported education by seeking scholarships and promoted the development of healthcare services, including Kitovu Hospital and Villa Maria Hospital.
His efforts also contributed to the expansion of infrastructure and social services in the region, including access to piped water, improved road networks and electricity. These initiatives helped transform Masaka Diocese into an important centre of Catholic faith, education and socio-economic development.
As part of the campaign, Masaka Diocese, in partnership with the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has organised a fundraising dinner at Sheraton Kampala Hotel.
The dinner brings together friends, well-wishers, religious leaders, members of the business community and other supporters of Masaka Diocese to officially launch the fundraising campaign and mobilise resources towards the completion of the empowerment centre.
The diocese says the centre will serve as a lasting tribute to Archbishop Kiwanuka’s legacy and his contribution to the spiritual, educational, health and socio-economic transformation of communities in Uganda.
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