By Naboth Niwagaba
The Bishop of the Diocese of Kigezi, Rt. Rev. Gaddie Akanjuna, has officially inaugurated Kitanga Church of Uganda Parish in Rukiga District, confirming 80 Christians into the Anglican faith.
The ceremony was held on Sunday at the church premises in Kitanga Parish, Kashambya Sub-county. During the service, Bishop Akanjuna unveiled the dedication stone, officially naming the church St.Peter’s Kitanga Church of Uganda Parish, before dedicating it to God through prayer.
Among the dignitaries present were Rukiga County MP-elect Patrick Kiconco Katabazi, Canon Henry Turyagyenda, and Mrs. Enid Turyabagyenzi, who were appointed as godparents and guardians of the newly confirmed Christians. The trio received dedication certificates on behalf of the congregation.
Bishop Akanjuna reminded Christians that dedicating a church signifies setting it apart solely for God’s work, cautioning against activities that could tarnish its sanctity. He also warned the newly confirmed believers against neglecting Bible study, saying spiritual growth requires continuous commitment.
Addressing the congregation, MP-elect Patrick Kiconco Katabazi highlighted his close collaboration with Christians of St. Peter’s Kitanga C.O.U Parish in renovating the church. He recalled officiating as chief guest at fundraising events that enabled plastering and painting of the building, and pledged continued support for further development projects.
Counsel Kiconco, a lawyer and economist, is expected to officially assume office in May after defeating incumbent Roland Bish Ndyomugyenyi and two other contenders in the recent elections.
Senior Presidential Adviser on Agriculture Peace Rugambwa thanked residents of Rukiga District for overwhelmingly voting for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and NRM candidates. She pledged to work with elected leaders and religious institutions to drive socio-economic transformation in the area.
Meanwhile, Rev. Prof. Medard Birungi Byayesu, founder of World Shune Ministries and a native of Rukiga, congratulated the parish on attaining its new status and pledged to donate a Bible to each of the newly confirmed Christians.
St. Peter’s Kitanga Church of Uganda Parish falls under Kantare Archdeaconry in the Diocese of Kigezi.
Earlier, the Chief Church Warden, Mrs. Enid Turyabagyenzi, said the church leadership and archdeaconry resolved during a February 9, 2026 meeting to name the church St. Peter’s Kitanga C.O.U. She added that they formally invited Bishop Akanjuna to dedicate and open the church through a letter dated February 10, 2026.
