Religious Leaders Urged to Combine Spiritual Teachings With Economic Empowerment

What the report says

Government leaders in Uganda have urged religious leaders to pair spiritual guidance with messages that encourage economic self-reliance, household income growth and community development, according to Nile Post. The appeal was delivered during prayers marking the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary at the Orthodox Cathedral in Kawanga Buwalula, Mityana District.

Vice President Jessica Alupo, in remarks read by Minister of State for Kampala Joseph Christopher Kabuye Kyofatogabye, said churches should continue nurturing believers’ faith while also promoting practical efforts to reduce poverty and build sustainable livelihoods. She praised the Orthodox Church for supporting government efforts aimed at improving living standards, and encouraged faith institutions to work with the state on programmes that strengthen community welfare.

Archbishop of the Orthodox Church Nektarios Leonard Lubega led the prayers and urged Christians to learn from Mother Mary’s compassion, love and unity. He said those values should be reflected not only in worship but also in how people support one another and contribute to society. His message echoed the government’s broader call for religious teachings to inspire social and economic transformation.

The event drew a large congregation that included government officials, religious leaders and Orthodox faithful, along with invited dignitaries such as Presidential Adviser Hajji Abdul Nadduli. The gathering highlighted the continuing role of faith-based institutions in public messaging around poverty reduction and development in Uganda.