Monsignor Dominic Ssengooba has urged Ugandan leaders to tackle human rights violations, corruption, rising living costs and environmental degradation, saying independence must translate into better living conditions for citizens.
The Vicar General of Masaka Diocese, Monsignor Dominic Ssengooba, has urged Ugandan leaders to go beyond annual Independence Day celebrations and address persistent challenges affecting citizens, saying freedom must translate into tangible improvements in people’s lives.
Ssengooba said Uganda had registered significant achievements since attaining independence in 1962, but several challenges, including human rights violations, corruption and rising commodity prices, continued to affect citizens’ welfare.
He made the remarks while presiding over Mass to mark 87 years of Bigada Parish in Kyotera District, during which the foundation stone for a Uganda Martyrs shrine was unveiled.
The shrine is planned for a site associated with reported miracles involving the Uganda Martyrs, which have contributed to the site’s recognition as a place of pilgrimage.
In his message, Ssengooba challenged leaders to use the independence celebrations as an opportunity to reflect on the country’s progress and identify areas requiring urgent intervention.
“We gained independence 64 years ago, and a lot has been achieved, but the country is still facing many challenges, including human rights violations, high commodity prices and corruption in government offices. I am also hearing that fuel prices are going to hit Shs10,000,” he said.
He urged leaders to pay greater attention to these concerns and take concrete measures to address them.
The cleric emphasised that the true meaning of independence should be reflected in efforts to improve people’s living conditions rather than being limited to annual celebrations.
He also expressed concern about the continued destruction of the environment, warning that environmental degradation was contributing to drought and affecting communities in different parts of Uganda.
Ssengooba called on Ugandans to protect the environment by planting trees and adopting practices that conserve natural resources.
He said environmental protection was a collective responsibility, urging individuals and communities to take practical steps to preserve the land for future generations.
Meanwhile, Bigada Parish priest, Rev Fr Lawrence Kizito Mukwaya, appealed to Christians to support the Church’s development programmes, particularly the construction of the Uganda Martyrs shrine.
He said contributions from the faithful would help the parish advance plans to establish the shrine as a place of prayer and pilgrimage.
Masaka Diocese lay leader Regina Kitaka also urged Christians to take advantage of the opportunities provided by independence to engage in income-generating activities and improve their economic well-being.
She encouraged believers to embrace initiatives that promote self-reliance and household development.
The Deputy Pokino, Joseph Sserwanja Mukasa, called on parents to fulfil their responsibilities by guiding their children towards good morals and nurturing them in the Christian faith.
He emphasised that responsible parenting was essential in raising disciplined children and strengthening religious values within families.
During the celebrations, 145 children received the Sacrament of Confirmation, marking another milestone in their Christian journey.
The congregation also raised Shs43 million towards the construction of the Uganda Martyrs shrine. The project is estimated to cost Shs200 million, leaving Shs157 million still needed to meet the target.
The celebrations brought together religious leaders, Christians and members of the local community to mark the parish’s 87-year history while renewing their commitment to faith, environmental protection and community development.