Kazo District, Uganda – Over the weekend, Kazo District was a hub of spiritual devotion and community development as residents from diverse religious and political backgrounds gathered for two major church fundraising events. These gatherings were marked by a strong sense of unity, legacy, and a collective vision for a better future.

At Mukuru Church of Uganda in Rwemikoma Archdeaconry, a significant milestone was reached in fulfilling the dream of the late Gen. Elly Tumwiine, a respected bush war hero and statesman. The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, led thousands in a special fundraising event to support the construction of a church project initiated by the late General himself.

The event drew numerous dignitaries, including Members of Parliament and senior Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officers. More than UGX 200 million was raised, with Rt. Hon. Tayebwa personally contributing UGX 50 million.
“Gen. Tumwiine was not only a freedom fighter but also a man of deep faith and vision,” Tayebwa remarked. “This church was his dream, and today, we as a community are helping to fulfill it.”

The deputy speaker was invited by Gen. Tumwiine’s widow, Mrs. Jolly Tumwiine, along with area MPs Hon. Dan Kimosho (Kazo Constituency) and Hon. Jenifer Muheesi (Kazo district Woman MP). Before the service, Tayebwa also met with local leaders at Hon. Kimosho’s residence to discuss strategies for poverty eradication and accelerating local development.

Hon. Dan Kimosho paid tribute to Gen. Tumwiine, describing him as “a leader who fought for peace and left behind a powerful legacy of service.” Hon. Jenifer Muheesi echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude for the late general’s mentorship and his dedication to national and spiritual growth.
The church service was presided over by Rt. Rev. Alfred Muhoozi, bishop of north ankole diocese, who preached on divine timing and the value of patience. “True legacies are built with faith and perseverance,” he reminded the congregation.

Meanwhile, just a few kilometers away at St. Paul’s Catholic Parish, Kazo’s Catholic community was also in a giving spirit, raising UGX 145 million in support of the Archdiocese of Mbarara Development Fund (AMDEF). This initiative is part of a larger UGX 8.5 billion project to construct a mega arcade in Mbarara City aimed at enhancing Church-led economic development.

The fundraising event commenced with Holy Mass led by Archbishop Lambert Bainomugisha, who commended the faithful for their active role in Church development. “The Church must become self-reliant this is the path to true sustainability,” he said, urging the congregation to reduce reliance on external donors.
Once again, MPs Kimosho and Muheesi led by example, contributing more than UGX 45 million toward the cause. Former Kazo County MP, Hon. Eng. John Nasasira, represented by Hon. Kimosho, also made a contribution of UGX 5 million, applauding the Church's role in improving education and healthcare services.

Eng. Silver Mugisha, Vice Chairperson of the AMDEF Board of Trustees, provided an update on the progress of the Mbarara arcade project. He reported significant headway but emphasized the need for continued financial support to meet the final target.
These two major fundraising events, one celebrating the spiritual legacy of a national hero and the other advancing the Catholic Church’s economic vision, reflected a district united in purpose and progress.
As Kazo district strengthens its role in Uganda’s spiritual and socio-economic transformation, leaders and residents alike hope these efforts will inspire similar initiatives across the country.

Tinyefuza Naboth
Kazo District Communications Officer