Archbishop Kazimba Consecrates St. Matthew's Cathedral Buhugu, Celebrates Bishop Gidudu's 10-Year Ministry

*17th November 2024, Sironko:*

St. Matthew’s Cathedral Buhugu in Sironko District, North Mbale Diocese, was officially opened and consecrated today by The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda. The milestone event coincided with the celebration of 10 years of episcopal ministry by Rt. Rev. Samuel Gidudu, the Bishop of North Mbale Diocese.

The vibrant ceremony attracted hundreds of Christians, government officials, and Church leaders, underscoring the significance of the Cathedral’s completion, a testament to the unity and resilience of the Diocese.

Unity Behind the Cathedral’s Success

During his address, Bishop Gidudu attributed the swift completion of the Cathedral—constructed in just five years at a cost of UGX 2.9 billion—to the solidarity within the Diocese. The 1,500-seater Cathedral began construction in 2019 under the chairmanship of Hon. Nathan Nandala Mafabi, the Budadiri West Member of Parliament.

"The success of this Cathedral is proof of what unity can achieve. Our next goal is to focus on self-sustainability projects to secure the Diocese’s future," Bishop Gidudu said. He appealed for support to develop income-generating infrastructure such as commercial buildings, emphasizing holistic growth for the Diocese.

Archbishop Kaziimba lauded Bishop Gidudu and the Diocese for completing the Cathedral in record time. He emphasized the importance of using the Cathedral as a center for spiritual growth and community empowerment.

He also urged the government to revive cooperative unions across Uganda, citing the successful example of Bugisu Cooperative Union (BCU) under the leadership of Hon. Nathan Nandala Mafabi.

"I was impressed by the transformative work being done by BCU. It is creating jobs, adding value to coffee, and empowering communities. Restoring cooperative unions can significantly contribute to economic growth and job creation across the country," Archbishop Kaziimba said.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, in a message delivered by Hon. Raphael Magyezi, the Minister of Local Government, praised Bishop Gidudu for his visionary leadership and development initiatives. He reiterated the government’s commitment to partnering with religious institutions to achieve community transformation.

"The government views spiritual leaders as key partners in development. I urge the Church to mobilize communities to embrace government programs aimed at eradicating poverty and improving welfare," President Museveni stated.

Hon. Nathan Nandala Mafabi, who chaired the construction committee, recounted the efforts that culminated in the Cathedral’s completion. He highlighted the dedication of Christians, leaders, and well-wishers who contributed to the project.

"This Cathedral is a symbol of our faith and determination. It stands not only as a place of worship but also as a beacon of unity and hope for the people of North Mbale Diocese," Hon. Mafabi said.

The event was graced by several active and retired Bishops, including Bishop John Wilson Nandaah (Mbale), Bishop Paul Hannington Ssubi (East Busoga), Bishop Samuel Bogere Egesa (Bukedi), Bishop Paul Kiptoo Masaba (Sebei), and retired Archbishop Stanley Ntagali, among others. Government dignitaries in attendance included Hon. Florence Namboozo, the Minister of State for Karamoja, Hon. Eng. Irene Muloni, former Minister of Energy, and Hon. Ssasaga Isiah Wanzira, MP for Budadiri East.

The consecration of St. Matthew’s Cathedral Buhugu is a historic milestone for North Mbale Diocese. It represents not just a place of worship but also a testament to what can be achieved through unity and purpose-driven leadership. As the Diocese pivots toward self-sustainability projects, the Cathedral will remain a symbol of faith, resilience, and hope for generations to come.

Meanwhile, Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu has expressed profound gratitude to Hon. Nathan Nandala Mafabi and his wife, Florence, for their remarkable generosity and hospitality. The couple graciously hosted Bishops and their entourages at their Mountains Inn Hotel in Mbale, providing exceptional care during the visit.

Additionally, Hon. Nandala Mafabi and his wife made a significant contribution, covering 85% of the costs for constructing St. Matthew's Cathedral Buhugu. This extraordinary act of philanthropy has greatly advanced the Church's mission, and the cathedral consecrated, marking a historic moment for the community. Archbishop Kaziimba commended their unwavering commitment to the Church and their role in fostering development and unity in the region.