CHURCHES TO BE DEMOLISHED BY 1 JULY 2026 IN KASESE MUNICIPALITY

Churches, mosques and schools housed in temporary wooden-and-iron-sheet structures in Kasese Municipality have been given an ultimatum to demolish those buildings and begin constructing permanent brick structures by July 1.   Kairi Zedekia Kambasu, Deputy Town Clerk of Kasese Municipality, said the deadline is part of new trade order regulations requiring all worship places and educational institutions to remove makeshift structures before the government steps in to enforce the law.   Kambasu warned that where voluntary compliance is not forthcoming, the municipality will proceed with enforcement measures where they will also demolish structures built in road reserves. The order has significant implications for religious organizations in the municipality. The Worldwide Anglican Church- Kasese Diocese is among the most affected, with more than 25 churches in the district built in timbers and iron sheets— only one of which currently meets in a permanent brick building standards.   Rt. Rev. Christopher Bwambale, Bishop of the Worldwide Anglican Church Diocese in Kasese, responded to the directive by calling for more time to ensure that congregations can make the transition to permanent structures safely and sustainably.    Rev. Sebeya Peter, who oversees development for the diocese, outlined an ambitious plan to construct more permanent churches within the next year.   He urged municipal authorities to show patience with what he described as "God's work," cautioning against hasty demolitions that could disrupt worship and community life.    As the diocese continues to expand its ministry, church leaders also highlighted the ordinations: more than 12 religious leaders — including priests, deacons, reverends and evangelists — have been ordained to serve the growing flock.    Tumusiime scovia  one of the ordained evangelists urged women to join the ministry of God as well as serving their families.   Both civic and religious leaders now face the challenge of balancing public safety and regulatory compliance with the practical and financial realities of reconstructing long-standing community worship and education institutions END