Uganda: Spiritual growth and National Transformation Go Hand in Hand – Museveni

President Yoweri Museveni has emphasized that spiritual growth and national transformation must progress together, as human beings possess both spiritual and physical needs.

“The spiritual needs,” he noted, “are fulfilled through prayer, studying scripture, receiving moral and religious instruction, fasting, and worship, among others. Physical needs, on the other hand, include essentials such as food, water, shelter, healthcare, education, clothing, transport, and employment. In a modern economy, these necessities require money. Therefore, the first step toward improving one’s wellbeing is to overcome ‘moneylessness’ or subsistence living, which only meets the basic need for food.”

This message was delivered on his behalf by the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, during the official opening of St. John’s Parish Church in Entebbe and the consecration of its new Vicar.

The President further explained that eliminating “moneylessness” requires engaging in productive enterprises within four key sectors: commercial agriculture, industry, services, and information and communication technology (ICT). He underlined that these sectors serve as vital sources of employment and wealth creation.

Museveni urged Christians to work diligently for their material wellbeing while preparing for eternal life. “As we strive for heaven,” he said, “we must not neglect our earthly responsibilities or entrench poverty and socio-economic backwardness within our families and communities.”

He encouraged the congregation of St. John’s to use the church not only as a place of worship, but also as a hub for community engagement—supporting education, empowering youth, promoting peace, and uplifting the vulnerable.

“The government remains committed to partnering with religious institutions to foster stability, development, and prosperity for all Ugandans,” the President affirmed. “May this church be blessed by Almighty God. May its walls resonate with praise for generations, serving as a sanctuary of peace and a beacon of hope.”

During the ceremony, the Bishop of Namirembe Diocese, Rt. Rev. Moses Bbanja, congratulated President Museveni on his re-election and prayed for divine wisdom and guidance in leading the nation. More than 100 pupils were confirmed into the Anglican faith amid joyful worship, and Prime Minister Nabbanja also launched the Glory Magazine for the church on behalf of the President.

St. John’s Parish Church, located near State House Entebbe, was founded in 1908 by the colonial administration under Governor Sir Hesketh Bell. It served as the place of worship for all Uganda Protectorate governors.