Bishop Appeals to Tayebwa Over Power Utility Vandalism in Lyantonde

What the report says

The Bishop of West Buganda Diocese, Rev. Gaster Nsereko, has urged Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa to help address repeated theft and vandalism of electricity cables in Lyantonde District. According to Nile Post, the bishop said the damage to power infrastructure is disrupting local businesses and other economic activity, while leaving residents with significant financial losses.

Nsereko made the appeal during commemorations at St Paul Kinuuka Archdeaconry, Kijjukizo Church of Uganda, where Christians gathered to honor people killed in the region’s late-19th-century religious conflicts and mark 138 years of the Church of Uganda’s service. He also raised concern about a prolonged water shortage and drought in Lyantonde, saying these challenges are adding pressure on households and livelihoods.

Local leaders at the event said political concerns can make it difficult for some politicians to strongly condemn cable theft, while also calling for tougher action against the problem. They separately encouraged communities to plant more trees as part of efforts to respond to drought and environmental stress in parts of Kabula.

Tayebwa, who represented President Yoweri Museveni at the ceremony, warned against buying stolen cables and said security agencies should intensify efforts against those involved in vandalizing electricity infrastructure. The event also served as a remembrance of early Christian converts in the area, blending historical commemoration with current concerns over public services and infrastructure protection.