By Mike Rwothomio 

The Church of Uganda Zumbu Town Parish in Nebbi Diocese has marked 2024 as a historic year, highlighted by unprecedented progress in construction projects and spiritual growth.

Under the leadership of Parish Priest Rev. Francis Uyirwoth Kubi and the head of laity, the parish has achieved what many are calling its busiest and most successful year in nearly seven decades.

Key Development: New Church Construction Takes Center Stage

The standout achievement is the ongoing construction of a new church at the parish headquarters, a project blessed by The Most Rt. Rev. Dr. Samuel Stephen Kazimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, during his visit to Ukuru Archdeaconry in 2023.

Described as the "main agenda of the parish," this multi-year effort gained significant momentum with a mega fundraising event on October 19, 2024.

The ongoing construction of Zumbu town Parish Church of Uganda, Ukuru Archdeaconry, Nebbi Diocese.

The event, attended by dignitaries including First Deputy Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga and Bishop Rt. Rev. Pons Ozelle Awinjo, raised over 20 million shillings, with Hon. Gabriel Okumu contributing a remarkable 10 million shillings alone.

Construction continues into 2025, with the parish aiming to complete the church by year-end as its top priority.

A Year of Growth and Milestones

Beyond the church project, Zumbu Town Parish recorded notable successes across multiple fronts:  

Weddings and Sacraments: The parish officiated several weddings, including high-profile unions like Jared Opyem and Moureen, boosting Holy Communion participation. Additionally, 76 candidates were confirmed on July 11, 2024, by Bishop Pons, and 82 infants were baptized, expanding the congregation.

Infrastructure Boom: Alongside the church, completed projects included a multi-million-shilling theatre, doctor’s residence, and water-borne toilets at Zumbo Health Centre III, as well as new facilities at the parish headquarters and Zumbo Lower Primary School. These developments, some supported by government funding, reflect a commitment to improving community welfare.

Community Engagement: Rev. Uyirwoth conducted pastoral visits to schools and health facilities, strengthening ties with institutions like Acamukech Parents’ PS and Zumbu Health Centre III. The parish also hosted the Nebbi Anglican Diocese Evangelistic Band, leading to numerous conversions.

Leadership and Recognition

The parish celebrated the election of Mummy Peggy Koi as the new Mothers’ Union President for Nebbi Diocese, succeeding Mummy Norah Alirach. Meanwhile, the Women’s Department, led by Mummy Winnie Pitic, enhanced parish hospitality by purchasing 14 new seats for the guest house.

Clergy and catechists also saw transfers and participated in a priests’ tour to Kampala, fostering diocesan unity.

Challenges Amid Triumphs

Despite its successes, the parish faced hurdles, including limited financial support for the church project, poor meeting attendance, and the loss of key members like Mama Miriam Munguacel. These challenges have spurred a renewed call for unity and mobilization in 2025.

Looking Ahead to 2025

Rev. Uyirwoth expressed gratitude for the parish’s achievements and urged continued collaboration, particularly toward completing the church construction.

Other goals for 2025 include enhanced evangelistic missions, youth seminars, and celebrations of key Christian events like Easter and Martyrs’ Day.

The parish theme, “Seek first the Kingdom of God and all other things will be given unto you” (Matthew 6:33), sets the tone for the year ahead.

Rev. Uyirwoth thanked families, local leaders for their continuous support. 

With its new church rising as a symbol of faith and perseverance, Zumbu Town Parish stands poised for an even brighter future.