LUGAZI – Hon. Richard Ssalongo Senteza, Member of Parliament for Lugazi Municipality, yesterday returned to his roots at Kiteza Catholic Church, where he joined Christians in a fundraising drive for the completion of the church. The legislator, who was warmly welcomed by the congregation, also reflected on his personal journey and the important role Kiteza Primary School played in shaping his early life.
The Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Kibowa Ginatiyo and brought together Christians, community leaders and several Members of Parliament who joined the people of Kiteza in supporting the development of the church. The gathering combined faith, thanksgiving, community development and a strong sense of belonging.
In his address, Hon. Senteza took the congregation down memory lane, narrating his connection to Kiteza Primary School, where he studied during his primary education. He used the opportunity to appreciate the teachers who guided him during those formative years, emphasizing the importance of remembering the people and places that contribute to one’s journey in life.
Senteza encouraged the community to always remember their roots and give back whenever they get an opportunity to do so. His message echoed the biblical teaching in Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”
The MP also highlighted the long history of Kiteza Catholic Church. He noted that about 60 years ago, the first church structure in the area eventually collapsed because of its poor condition, prompting Christians to come together and mobilize resources to construct the current church.
However, Senteza observed that despite the determination of the Christians, the church building has remained incomplete for about 15 years, particularly without roofing. He therefore described its completion as an important responsibility that requires collective commitment from Christians, leaders and well-wishers.
In a strong commitment that was warmly received by the congregation, Senteza said he wants the church to reach a stage where the first Mass can be celebrated in the completed building during the Christmas season. The announcement generated excitement among Christians, who welcomed the prospect of finally seeing the long-awaited church completed.
His message was also anchored in the spirit of giving and collective responsibility. Quoting 2 Corinthians 9:7, he reminded the congregation that “God loves a cheerful giver,” encouraging Christians and well-wishers to contribute according to their ability towards completing the house of worship.
Senteza further spoke about his responsibility to the people of Lugazi Municipality, recalling that during his search for a parliamentary mandate, he promised to work on challenges affecting residents, including water shortages, roads, schools, hospitals and other essential services.
He said work has already started on some of the issues he committed himself to address, pointing to ongoing improvements in roads and other infrastructure as part of the progress being made. He emphasized that leadership should be measured through service to the people and tangible development in communities.
The event was attended by several Members of Parliament from different parts of the country, including Hon. Julius Nakiyi Muntu of Budadiri County East, Hon. Dr. Eunice Apio Otuku of Oyam North, Hon. George Musisi of Kira Municipality, Hon.Hon. Eliab Naturinda Mporera Ndorwa West kabale District, Hon. Eunice Namatende, Woman Representative for Bugiri District, Hon. Judith Nagujja, Woman Representative for Buvuma District, and Hon. Mastula Namatovu of Kamuli Municipality.
The visiting legislators commended Senteza for his cooperation and cordial working relationship with fellow Members of Parliament, describing him as a humble and cooperative colleague with whom they work together in parliamentary duties, including the Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE). The day ended with a renewed call for unity, faith and collective action, with Senteza’s pledge to see Kiteza Catholic Church completed giving Christians fresh hope. As Psalm 133:1 reminds us: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity.”
