The highly anticipated Busoga Prayer Week began on a high note at St. Andrew’s Church, Bukoto, Kampala, on October 14th, 2024. The opening service witnessed the gathering of worshippers, united in a spirit of prayer, reflection, and calls for regional cohesion and development.
The service was graced by the Prime Minister of Busoga Kingdom, Owek. Dr. Joseph Muvawala, who delivered the keynote address. In his opening remarks, Dr. Muvawala paid tribute to Busoga’s “foundational heroes,” a distinguished group of individuals who played pivotal roles in fostering unity in the region. He acknowledged the late Kyabazinga, His Majesty Henry Wako Muloki, as well as the late Kantale Kazungu, Hajji Musulo, Bishop Bamwoze, the late Justice Wambuzi, and Hon. Victoria Sekitoleko, among others, noting their enduring influence in shaping the future of Busoga.
In his address, Dr. Muvawala outlined seven key aspects of cohesion, urging the Basoga to unite for the region’s development under the theme Deepening Cohesion for Regional Development:
1. Shared Values and Norms: He emphasized the importance of common cultural, religious, and social values that bind the Basoga together, creating a sense of belonging.
2. Trust and Mutual Support: Dr. Muvawala highlighted the significance of trust and mutual support among community members, fostering collaboration and resilience.
3. Communication and Interaction: He stressed that effective communication and regular interaction, through social and cultural gatherings, are key to resolving conflicts and strengthening bonds.
4. Inclusiveness and Participation: Promoting inclusivity, he called for the active participation of all members of society in decision-making processes to build a more cohesive community.
5. Emotional Bonds: The Prime Minister also spoke on the emotional connections that unite the Basoga, forged through shared experiences and mutual empathy.
6. Collective Goals and Identity: He underscored the importance of working towards shared objectives, such as economic development and cultural preservation, which strengthen regional unity.
7. Resilience: Lastly, he noted that cohesive communities are more resilient in the face of challenges, with unity helping to weather difficulties and foster recovery.
The Role of the Church
The main celebrant, Rev. Canon Dr. Grace Lubaale, delivered a stirring sermon focused on the theme of unity and its essential role in community development. Rev. Lubaale urged the congregation to embrace cooperation and support for one another. “Together, we can overcome the challenges we face as a region. Let us commit to working hand in hand, in faith and action, to build a better future for Busoga,” he said, sharing personal testimonies of how prayer has positively impacted lives and communities in the region.
Notable Dignitaries in Attendance
Among the dignitaries present were Hon. Kisa Stephen, Chairperson of the Organizing Committee and Member of Parliament for Luuka South, Honourable Justice Irene Mulyangonja, Kagoma MP Alex Brandon Kintu, and the Director General of the Busoga Consortium for Development, Mr. Anthony Mula.
Hon. Kisa Stephen spoke on the transformative power of prayer, citing how it brought unity among Busoga’s Members of Parliament. “At the first prayer week in Iganga, we had two factions, but through prayer, we came together as one,” he said, acknowledging Hon. Idhi Isabirye as the current leader of the unified MPs.
A Vision for Busoga’s Future
Mr. Anthony Mula, the Director General of the Busoga Consortium for Development, addressed the congregation, emphasizing the importance of prayer in achieving the region’s development goals, particularly in education, health, and infrastructure. “We envision a Busoga that leads in all sectors, and this week of prayer is a crucial step toward making that vision a reality. Let us pray earnestly for God’s blessings on our endeavors,” he urged.
The service concluded with the congregation feeling spiritually uplifted and hopeful for the days ahead.
The Busoga Prayer Week will continue with various activities and services across multiple locations, culminating in a grand celebration on October 20th in Luuka District, where President Yoweri Museveni is expected to be the chief guest. This year’s prayer week focuses on **”Deepening Regional Cohesion as a Foundation for Sustainable Household Transformation.