A section of Born-Again pastors in Eastern Uganda has appealed to the government to include their churches among the groups eligible for support under national livelihood programs. 

The pastors argue that Born Again Churches contribute significantly to community welfare and should therefore benefit from government initiatives aimed at improving citizens’ livelihoods. 

The call was made by George Wasakina, the Eastern Region Pastors’ Coordinator, while addressing NRM National Treasurer Barbara Nekesa Oundo during celebrations to mark the existence of Stewards of Grace Busia Chapter.    

The event, held yesterday at Busia Border Primary School playground, brought together pastors from Busia, Namisindwa, Bulambuli, Mbale, Kapchorwa, Butaleja, Kamuli, and Namayingo, among other districts.

Wasakina says many churches and worship centers have been left out of key government development programs.

He asks Parliament and President Museveni to give special attention to Born Again Churches, noting that most pastors struggle with poverty-related challenges such as medical bills, school fees, and lack of transport to facilitate ministry work. 

On Wednesday, the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) donated 1230 iron sheets to five churches in Kitgum district through the office of the State Minister of Disaster Preparedness, Relief, and Refugee Affairs, Lillian Aber, and they include; Daudi Okello and Jildo Irwa Chapel in Kitgum Municipality, which received 200 iron sheets; St John of the Cross Layik Koco in Labongo Amida West Sub-county, which received 230 iron sheets; St Anthony Padol Chapel in Kitgum Municipality, which received 200 iron sheets;

Others are; Faith Mission of Uganda Church in Kitgum Municipality, which received 200 iron sheets; St Phillip’s Church of Uganda in Kitgum Municipality, which received 200 iron sheets; and St John the Baptist Primary school in Omiya Anyima Sub-county, which received 200 iron sheets.