President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni commissioned the newly built St. John’s Church in Entebbe on Monday, calling it a powerful emblem of faith, sacrifice, and collaboration. He then headed to a campaign rally in Entebbe Municipality.
Accompanying the President was the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni.
Upon their arrival, Reverend Canon Rocky Sendegeya, the Vicar, greeted the couple and guided them through the new church structure, pointing out its main features and construction milestones.
Speaking to a group of congregants, President Museveni shared his delight at returning to a location of deep personal and historical importance to him.
“Maama Janet and I are truly pleased to join you today, and I commend you for constructing this impressive new church,” he stated.
He reminisced about the early days of his administration, when he and the First Lady regularly worshipped in the original modest church building—once used by the colonial Governor.
After relocating to Nakasero in Kampala and focusing on renovations and the new State House, they lost regular connection to the site.
“That’s why I’m so glad to see all of you here now. You’ve accomplished excellent work on this church,” Museveni added.
He confirmed his plan to participate in the church’s formal dedication event on February 22, 2026, and committed to looking into further assistance for unfinished elements of the project.
He specifically applauded the church’s efforts to bolster its SACCO.
Drawing from the broader mission of Christianity, the President stressed that true faith must encompass both spiritual guidance and tangible support for everyday life. He explained that Christ’s work included four key aspects: proclaiming the Gospel, healing the ill, feeding those in need, and earning a living through carpentry while leading a disciplined, model life.
“Focusing solely on preaching while neglecting the other elements leaves the mission incomplete,” he noted.
Museveni urged believers to step up and lead in tackling real-world challenges like food security, healthcare, and economic stability.
“I congratulate you once more and give thanks to the Lord for His guidance. Moving forward, we will partner together to finish what remains,” he concluded.
In his welcome remarks earlier, Reverend Canon Rocky Sendegeya expressed gratitude to the President and First Lady for their visit.
He thanked Museveni for his national leadership and the peace enjoyed across Uganda.
“Your Excellency and Maama, welcome back to St. John’s—your former place of worship during your time in Entebbe. We hope to resume fellowshipping with you as we once did,” he said, while also extending best wishes for the upcoming elections.
Dr. James Musinguzi, the Head of Laity, provided context on the church construction project and the teamwork that drove it to completion. He highlighted the strong collaboration among Christians, along with support from Tororo Cement facilitated through the President’s son, Manish.
“Working side by side with fellow believers and in partnership with Tororo Cement via your son Manish, we pushed hard to finish this church,” Dr. Musinguzi explained.
Tororo Cement contributed roughly Shs 2.4 billion, while the congregation and church raised about Shs 3.6 billion, for a combined investment of approximately Shs 6 billion.
He expressed appreciation for the dedication and sacrifices made by the Christian community in bringing the new building to reality.
