NAMUGONGO, Wakiso District : The Bishop of the Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church at Mamre International Prayer Centre in Janda, Namugongo, Bishop Jacinto Kibuuka, has called on citizens to mobilize humanitarian relief for people affected by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Speaking on April 3, 2026, during an interview while observing the Way of the Cross, Bishop Kibuuka urged individuals and communities to extend goodwill by supporting those caught in the crisis.
He expressed concern over the escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, noting that large populations are experiencing immense suffering, including loss of life, injuries, and widespread destruction of property. He described the situation as a reflection of a lack of meaningful spiritual dialogue among global leaders whose decisions directly impact their citizens.
“As religious leaders, it is our clerical responsibility to guide our followers to respond compassionately,” he said. “We must encourage humanitarian contributions to support innocent people who have no direct stake in the conflict.”
Bishop Kibuuka emphasized the role of faith leaders in promoting peace and stability, particularly for communities in the Middle East affected by the violence. He called for collective efforts to raise resources and provide essential relief items to those in need.
Turning to local concerns, the bishop strongly condemned the recent killing of children in Ggaba, describing it as a horrific act that has so far claimed the lives of five innocent victims.
The government has since responded by indefinitely closing the affected school pending investigations. In a press statement dated April 3, 2026, the Minister of State for Higher Education, Dr. Chrysostom Muyingo, confirmed the decision.
Bishop Kibuuka attributed such incidents to a breakdown in moral and spiritual values within communities and leadership structures. He urged both religious and cultural leaders to take a proactive role in promoting values such as humility, tolerance, and forgiveness.
“We must deliberately sensitize our communities on peaceful coexistence,” he said. “These values are essential for building a harmonious society.”
He further noted that the spirit of tolerance demonstrated among Christians during the Easter season should be sustained throughout the year as a foundation for unity and peace.
