By Julius Mugaga Tukacungurwa/Umoja Standard.
Kampala, Uganda: Uganda’s All Saints Cathedral Kampala is set to open its doors this Friday, November 1, 2024, after 14 years of construction. The highly anticipated event will be presided over by President Yoweri Museveni and will include the consecration of Ven. Rev Canon Fredrick Jackson Baalwa as the new Assistant Bishop of the Diocese of Kampala, replacing retiring Dr. Hannington Mutebi.
Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi, Chairperson Organizing Committee briefs Speaker Among on the progress after a guided tour. 📷Julius Mugaga.
The Cathedral’s opening marks a significant milestone for the Diocese of Kampala, with the new structure expanding the church’s worship space from 400 to 5,000 seats. This expansion is expected to accommodate the growing number of worshippers and provide a more conducive environment for spiritual growth.
Speaker Among during Press Conference. 📷 Julius Mugaga.
During her guided tour to the Cathedral, Speaker of Parliament Anita Among demonstrated her support for the project by donating 50 million Uganda shillings towards the success of the event. “Today, I’m honoured to offer a small contribution. Wherever possible, we’ll continue to support your endeavours,” Speaker Among said.
Rt. Hon. John Patrick Amma Mbabazi, Chairperson of the Organizing committee, expressed gratitude for Speaker Among’s donation, highlighting that it bridged the remaining funding gap of 50 million shillings.
Amama Mbabazi speaks to Press after receiving UGX50M from Speaker Among. 📷Julius Mugaga.
The construction of the Cathedral has been a community effort, with Christians and well-wishers contributing 18 billion shillings towards the interior work.
Vivian Igundura, Chairperson of the All-Saints’ Cathedral Project (ACP), acknowledged the support, saying, “We’re thankful to our parishioners, the Ugandan community, and all well-wishers, regardless of faith, for their kindness and support.” However, an additional 7.5 billion shillings is still needed to complete the exterior works.
Igundura facilitating the guided tour inside the new Cathedral as Speaker Among & Amama Mbabazi look on. 📷 Julius Mugaga.
The All Saints’ Cathedral Kampala serves as the seat of the Diocese of Kampala and the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda. The Archbishop also serves as the Diocesan Bishop. This iconic structure is poised to become a symbol of unity and spiritual growth for the community.
The opening ceremony promises to be a momentous occasion, with at least 3,000 people expected to attend. As Church of Uganda celebrates this significant milestone, the All Saints’ Cathedral Kampala stands as a testament to the power of community and faith.