Church Urges Government to Support Faith-Based Institutions in Nation Building
Bishop Charles Collins Andaku speaking to press on Nation Building Church being Main Partner
ARUA: As Uganda celebrates its 63rd Independence Anniversary today, the Bishop of Madi West Nile Diocese, Rt. Rev. Charles Collins Andaku, has urged the government to continue supporting faith-based institutions for their vital role in empowering communities, shaping moral values, and fostering ethical leadership in nation-building.
Speaking to the press on Independence Day at the Diocesan headquarters in Arua City, Bishop Andaku reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to serving as a moral compass and voice of reason through education, healthcare, and social transformation.
He emphasized the Church’s partnership with the state in advancing national development.
The Bishop called on believers nationwide to pray for leaders and engage in peaceful civic education as responsible citizens.
He urged Christians to be agents of reconciliation and peace in their communities.
“The Church remains a steadfast partner in nation-building, guiding through education, health, and social transformation,” Bishop Andaku said.
“We call on the government to support faith-based institutions that shape values, empower communities, and uphold ethical leadership. We also encourage believers to pray for our leaders, participate peacefully in civic duties, and act as agents of reconciliation.
To the youth, as we celebrate this Uhuru, know that the future is yours. Avoid manipulation for short-term political gains and channel your energy into innovation, entrepreneurship, and community service.”
Ahead of the 2026 general elections, Bishop Andaku stressed the need for unity, productivity, accountability, and improved service delivery.
He called for a moral renewal, urging Ugandans, regardless of political affiliations, to unite against corruption, laziness, and moral decay.
“As this year’s theme reminds us, sustaining a united and progressive nation demands renewed efforts in productivity, accountability, and service delivery,” he said.
“Our nation stands at a crossroads socially, politically, and morally. As we approach the 2026 elections, let us remember that Uganda belongs to all of us. Political differences should never fuel hatred, division, or violence.
Every Ugandan—leaders, civil servants, farmers, youth, businesspeople, the press, and faith communities—has a role to play. Let us fight corruption, laziness, and moral decay with the same zeal we fought for our independence.”
This year’s Independence Day is celebrated under the theme, “A Reason to Double Our Efforts in Sustaining a United and Progressive Nation.”