Masindi-Kitara Diocese Bishop-elect Rev. Canon Kugonza receives heroic welcome

Masindi: On April 1, 2025, Christians and religious leaders from Masindi-Kitara Diocese gathered in large numbers to officially welcome Rev. Canon Joshua Kugonza as the newly elected Bishop.

The celebrations started with a gathering at St. Matthew’s Cathedral in Masindi Town at 2 PM, followed by a procession to Kafu Junction in Kimengo Sub-County, Buruli County, Masindi District.

At 4 PM, the procession passed through Masindi Town towards Kijura Trading Centre, before concluding with a church service at St. Matthew’s Cathedral at 5 PM.

In his sermon, Rt. Rev. George William Kasangaki, the outgoing Bishop of Masindi-Kitara Diocese, expressed gratitude to God for a successful and peaceful election process.

He compared the election process to the divine miracles witnessed by the children of Israel, emphasizing that leadership comes from God. He urged the congregation to continue praying and supporting Rev. Kugonza as he takes on his new role.

Bishop Kasangaki explained the steps involved in electing a new bishop, outlining how names are suggested by the synode, vetted by the nominating and vetting committees, and then presented to the House of Bishops, where the final decision is made.

He encouraged the community to support the Bishop-Elect in the continuation of church development projects, including construction efforts.

Rev. Canon Joshua Kugonza, addressing the congregation, thanked God for guiding him to this point, and shared a personal story about the power of prayer.

He revealed that while he had initially declined to participate in fasting and prayer, his daughter, in primary four, had been fasting and praying every Thursday from January through the date of his election.

His wife, Mrs. Proscovia Allen Kugonza, also thanked the community for their prayers and support throughout this challenging journey.

Succession process

The process to select a new bishop for Masindi-Kitara Diocese started in October 2024 when Bishop Kasangaki announced his retirement plans for August 2025, as he reaches the mandatory retirement age.

A 15-member nomination committee, chaired by Diocesan Chancellor George Kunihira, was responsible for vetting candidates. After a thorough evaluation, Rev. Canon Joshua Kugonza emerged as the chosen candidate.

His election excites Christians

The election of Rev. Canon Joshua Kugonza was widely celebrated by the Christian community.

Milton Mirimo, the chairperson of the laity in the diocese, expressed his gratitude to God for the peaceful election process. He also expressed confidence that Kugonza would provide strong leadership, citing his expertise and experience.

Earnest Kiiza, chairperson of the laity in Masindi Deanery, also expressed optimism for Kugonza’s leadership, citing his experience in church leadership and his warm, approachable nature.

ASP Solomon Mugisa, a Community Liaison Officer at Hima Police Division and a key figure at St. Matthew’s Cathedral, affirmed that Kugonza’s experience and leadership abilities would help guide the diocese in the right direction.

Cosmas Byaruhanga, the Masindi District LCV Chairman, pledged to continue collaborating with the incoming Bishop-Elect as he works closely with Bishop Kasangaki in the lead-up to his retirement.

Who is Rev. Canon Joshua Kugonza?

The House of Bishops of the Church of Uganda, convening at Zebra Hotel in Masaka City on March 30, 2025, elected Rev. Canon Joshua Kugonza as the 3rd Bishop of Masindi-Kitara Diocese. His consecration and enthronement will take place on August 3, 2025, at St. Matthew’s Cathedral in Masindi.

Born on October 7, 1976, in Kiryandongo District, Rev. Canon Kugonza gave his life to Christ on September 13, 1989, at Alwala Church of Uganda in Apac District, West Lango Diocese.

His journey in the ministry began with his ordination as a Deacon on January 3, 2010, and his Priesting on December 14, 2010, at St. Matthew’s Cathedral in Masindi. He was later elevated to the position of Canon at the same cathedral.

Rev. Kugonza is married to Mrs. Proscovia Allen Kugonza, and together they have four children. He has served as the Diocesan Secretary of Masindi-Kitara Diocese since 2021 and has held various roles in the church, including Parish Priest, Project Officer with Samaritan’s Purse, and Headteacher at Kigumba Intensive Primary School.

He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Divinity from Uganda Christian University and a Diploma in Education from National Teachers College, Ngetta in Lira District, along with several other professional qualifications.

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