Kugonza consecrated as third Bishop of Masindi-Kitara Diocese
“We are ready to work hand in hand with Bishop Kugonza to uplift our communities spiritually and economically,” said Businge.
Masindi: Rev. Canon Joshua Kugonza has officially been consecrated and enthroned as the third Bishop of Masindi-Kitara Diocese.
The ceremony, held at St. Matthew’s Cathedral in Masindi Town, was presided over by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu.
In his address to the congregation, Archbishop Kaziimba called upon Christians to pray for and support the new bishop and his leadership team.
“I call upon Christians and all people of God to support the new bishop and his team. My brother Joshua Kugonza, you have been called at such a time as this to continue guiding God’s people. Be a pastor, teacher, counselor, and defender of the truth. You are not a political leader but a shepherd to all, both near and far. Continue loving the people and encouraging hard work,” he said.
He urged Bishop Kugonza to promote unity, diligence, and spiritual revival while steering clear of politics, emphasizing that the bishop’s role is pastoral, not political.
“Much has been achieved in this young diocese within a few years. I urge you to walk together with the new bishop and take the diocese to greater levels of spiritual and economic development,” the Archbishop added.
In his inaugural remarks, Bishop Kugonza praised his predecessor, Rt. Rev. George William Kasangaki, for his leadership and especially his contributions toward the construction of St. Matthew’s Cathedral.
“I commend Bishop Kasangaki for his tireless efforts in laying a strong foundation. I pledge to continue with key church projects including securing land titles for all churches, promoting tree planting for environmental conservation, and strengthening health and education ministries,” Kugonza stated.
He also pledged to boost household income and food security through supporting diocesan SACCOs and leveraging government initiatives like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga.
The outgoing Bishop, Rt. Rev. George William Kasangaki, expressed deep gratitude to church members, political leaders, civil servants, and the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom for supporting his ministry over the past 15 years.
“This is a moment to pass the mantle of leadership to Bishop Kugonza. I thank my fellow bishops for their unwavering support,” said Kasangaki.
Grace Mary Mugasa, Minister of State for Public Service, delivered a message on behalf of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who commended the Church’s role in nation-building.
“I recognize the vital role the Church plays in promoting peace, unity, and development. Your ministry has been a beacon of hope and spiritual guidance for the people of Masindi and beyond,” the President noted.
President Museveni urged the new bishop to lead with integrity and assured him of continued government support for Church-led initiatives aimed at improving citizens’ welfare.
Masindi District LCV Chairperson, Cosmas Byaruhanga, reflected on his ten-year working relationship with the outgoing Bishop Kasangaki and welcomed the new bishop with a pledge of collaboration.
“Bishop Kasangaki has been a visionary leader. I look forward to working closely with Bishop Kugonza to further the mission of the Church and community development,” Byaruhanga said.
Joab Businge, Member of Parliament for Masindi Municipality, also congratulated the new bishop and committed to supporting his ministry.
“We are ready to work hand in hand with Bishop Kugonza to uplift our communities spiritually and economically,” said Businge.
Rev. Kugonza’s election and background
Born on October 7, 1976, in Kiryandongo District, Rev. Kugonza committed his life to Christ on September 13, 1989, at Alwala Church of Uganda in Apac District, part of the West Lango Diocese.
His clerical journey began with his ordination as a Deacon on January 3, 2010, followed by his Priesting on December 14, 2010, both at St. Matthew’s Cathedral, Masindi. He was later elevated to Canon and currently serves as the Diocesan Secretary, a position he has held since 2021.
Rev. Kugonza is married to Mrs. Proscovia Allen Kugonza, and together they have four children. His career includes service as a Parish Priest, Project Officer with Samaritan’s Purse, Headteacher, and Teacher at Kigumba Intensive Primary School.
He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Divinity from Uganda Christian University, a Diploma in Education from National Teachers College Ngetta in Lira District, along with several professional qualifications.
The succession process
The search for a new bishop commenced in October 2024 ahead of Bishop Kasangaki’s retirement. A 15-member nomination committee led by Diocesan Chancellor George Kunihira oversaw the vetting process.
The House of Bishops on March 30, 2025, during their sitting at Zebra Hotel in Masaka City unanimously elected to lead the diocese into a new chapter.
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