By Leilah Bbaale
The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu has reiterated Church of Uganda’s commitment towards ending violence against women and girls in homes, schools, workplaces, and public places.
This comes as the Church of Uganda joined the rest of the World to recognize the need to empower women and girls in order to reduce their vulnerability to Gender Based Violence in all forms.
“We affirm the biblical truth that all individuals were created in the image and likeness of God, (Genesis 1:26-28) and God also gave each of us unique talents and abilities. Therefore it is imperative to remove barriers that limit women and girls to access equal opportunities and fulfill their God given purpose,” said the Archbishop said in a press statement shared by the CoU Communications Officer, Adams Sadiiki.
The Archbishop, currently on his pastoral visit in Kumi Diocese conducted several activities including mobilization of women on economic empowerment and rights on Friday in Kumi as the country held its national celebrations in Katakwi district. He also conducted service a special church service at St. Stephen CoU in Kumi district in commemoration of the International Women’s Day.
Archbishop Kaziimba who arrived in Kumi Diocese on Friday noted that the Church of Uganda Directorate of Household and Community Transformation through the Interfaith Action for Gender and Economic Justice, has continued to invest in women by supporting initiatives that promote economic empowerment with women and girls at the forefront.
He pledged Church of Uganda’s support to survivors of Gender Based Violence through provision of counseling services and making safe spaces for them like in the Mothers Union, Fathers Union, Youth and Children Ministries.
“The Church will also strengthen the boy child programs in all churches to groom and mentor the boy child right from childhood to responsible men in future. I call upon parents to ensure positive parenting by playing your roles,” said the Archbishop Kaziimba.
He commended the efforts and support from partners especially Dan Church Aid (DCA) who have supported the Church of Uganda in implementation of Women economic empowerment projects in Kumi, Rakai, Sembabule, Lwengo, and Bukedea Districts and has yielded good results.
In a media interview, the Director of Household and Community Transformation, Rev. Andrew Agaba said that they will build the capacity of women and girls in order for them to participate in income generating activities and business, participate in planning and family decision making processes for better society.
Church of Uganda celebrated Women’s Day under the theme; “Accelerating gender equality through economic empowerment.”
