Rev. Canon Kugonza to be consecrated as Bishop of Masindi Kitara Diocese this Sunday
He succeeds Rt. Rev. George William Kasangaki, who has reached the mandatory retirement age as per the Church of Uganda Constitution.
Masindi: The Church of Uganda is set to consecrate Rev. Canon Joshua Kugonza as the 3rd Bishop of Masindi Kitara Diocese this Sunday, August 3, 2025, at St. Matthew’s Cathedral, Masindi.
The consecration will be presided over by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Steven Kazimba Mugalu, following Rev. Kugonza’s election by the House of Bishops on March 30, 2025, during their sitting at Zebra Hotel in Masaka City.
He succeeds Rt. Rev. George William Kasangaki, who has reached the mandatory retirement age as per the Church of Uganda Constitution.
According to Simon Peter Ayebale, the chairperson of the organizing committee, preparations are in full gear. “We have procured all the equipment and foodstuff needed for a successful consecration,” he said in an interview on Friday, August 1, 2025.
Ayebale noted that although the organizing team had budgeted Shs 600 million, they are currently operating on a deficit and called for continued financial support. “The venue has been costly compared to others,” he added, thanking Christians, political leaders, and well-wishers for their generous contributions.
The event is expected to draw over 7,000 attendees and will be graced by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. Security will be tight, with police and army personnel enforcing road closures and conducting thorough checks. Christians are urged to arrive early and in large numbers.
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. Rev. Kugonza was unanimously elected to lead the diocese into a new chapter.
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