Nekesa Urges Churches to Promote Economic Empowerment, Unity

What the report says

Ambassador Barbara Nekesa Oundo, the NRM national treasurer, used a fundraising dinner for Kazo Seventh-day Adventist Church in Kampala to call on religious leaders to pair spiritual teaching with practical advice on poverty reduction, economic empowerment and peaceful coexistence. According to Nile Post, she spoke as guest of honour at the event held at Hotel Africana.

Nekesa urged churches to help their congregations find ways to improve livelihoods and to use their influence to promote national unity. She cautioned against sectarianism and tribalism, saying such divisions can fuel hatred and undermine peaceful living. She also praised Uganda’s environment for freedom of worship, contrasting it with situations in some other countries where religious communities face restrictions or persecution.

The event was organised to raise Shs150 million for the church’s expansion plans, including buying adjoining land, building a pastor’s residence and creating more parking space. Church members, supporters and other leaders contributed to the drive, which reflected the congregation’s infrastructure needs and its broader role in the community.

Beyond the immediate fundraising appeal, Nekesa’s remarks fit into a wider public discussion in Uganda about the social role of faith institutions. Her message framed churches as centres not only of worship, but also of civic guidance, social cohesion and support for development.