By Mike Rwothomio

The retired Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr. Henry Luke Orombi, has issued a strong call to believers, discouraging the practice of skin bleaching and encouraging them to value and protect the natural skin given by God’s creation.

Archbishop Orombi made the appeal during the confirmation service of 105 faithfuls held on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at St. Paul’s Church of Uganda, Mvungu in Paidha Town Parish, Goli Central Archdeaconry, Nebbi Diocese.

The event drew hundreds of believers from the parish and archdeaconry, highlighting the ongoing growth of the church in the region.

“Let us avoid skin bleaching. Let us be ourselves. God created our skins for the reasons He knows,” Orombi declared.

He added with emphasis: “God created our dark skins for a reason , it is beautiful! Why don’t you be proud of it!”

The Archbishop explained that God created the skins of Africans differently from those of other races for specific geographical reasons, urging everyone to accept God’s love and the creation of every person in His own image and likeness.

In recent years, skin lightening has become a widespread beauty trend in many parts of Africa, including Uganda. Demand for lighter skin tones remains high, even as the health risks associated with such practices become increasingly clear.

Many women and youths continue to use potentially harmful products and procedures, including intravenous (IV) treatments, despite known dangers.

The practice, which was rare in the Greater Nebbi area about 20 years ago, has now become common, particularly among women.

Many attribute its spread in the region to influences from Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

From a health standpoint, skin-bleaching products often contain dangerous substances such as mercury, hydroquinone, and strong corticosteroids. These chemicals can lead to serious complications, including skin thinning, permanent discoloration (ochronosis), increased risk of skin cancer due to reduced melanin protection, kidney damage, neurological problems, and systemic toxicity.

Archbishop Orombi’s message combined spiritual guidance with a call for responsible self-care, reminding believers that the body is a temple that should be protected.

He also addressed family life, emphasizing the importance of unity in the church and homes.

The Archbishop urged parents to provide responsible care for their children, with prayer at the center of family life, and called on children to respect their parents.

He stressed the need for forgiveness between parents and children to promote healing and harmony.

Known for his affection toward children, Archbishop Orombi began his address by inviting hundreds of children to come forward for blessings, in line with Jesus’ teaching: “Let the little children come to me, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”

 He routinely offers such blessings, describing children as a special gift.

“The devil are targeting our kids, we need to pray for them,” Orombi said as the children knelt humbly.

 He then prayed for God’s blessings, peace, and protection over them.

The confirmation ceremony, conducted by Archbishop Orombi, saw nearly 90 percent of the 105 candidates being youths below the age of 17 , a clear sign of the church’s promising future growth and vitality.

He prayed for the newly confirmed, asking for God’s continued blessings and encouraging them to “stick to the truth, help others, work for God, and do good for others.” 

He urged them to bear fruit in Christ, to pray without ceasing, and to knock so that doors may be opened.

The colourful celebration featured uplifting performances by church choirs from Bethania , Rukidi, St. Peter’s, and the host St. Paul’s Mvungu, along with a creative dance by the St. Paul’s Sunday School children.

Their soul-stirring songs, rich in biblical lyrics, strengthened the faith of those newly confirmed.

The event was organized under the leadership of the newly posted Archdeacon of Goli Central Archdeaconry, Ven. Alfred Ogenmungu, transferred from Ukuru Archdeaconry, and marked the first confirmation service for Rev. Marlon Rupiny as Parish Priest of Paidha Town Parish. 

Ven. Ogenmungu commended the Paidha faithful for their support in preparing the 105 candidates.

Rev. Chris delivered the Bible reading from the Gospel according to St. Luke 11:1, which focuses on the importance of daily prayer.

In his broader message, Archbishop Orombi encouraged believers to seek God earnestly and pursue what they need, drawing a parallel with how businessmen diligently search for markets and opportunities.

The confirmation service stood as a significant moment of spiritual renewal, faith expansion.

Retired Archbishop Dr. Henry Luke Orombi administer confirmation to the faithfuls at Mvungu upper Primary School Playground in Paidha town council on Sunday April 12, 2026.

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at zoomer Africa your number one grassroot information hub