Seven Church of Uganda Bishops, Including Archbishop Kaziimba, to Retire in 2027

Next year, 2027, will see a notable shift in leadership within the Church of Uganda, with seven senior bishops scheduled to retire. The announcement was made by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, during the 28th Provincial Assembly held at Uganda Christian University.

These retirements are in line with the Church’s constitutional provisions regarding age limits for its clergy. Archbishop Kaziimba himself, who also serves as the Bishop of the Diocese of Kampala, is among those stepping down. His tenure as the spiritual head began in 2020.

Joining Archbishop Kaziimba in retirement are Rt. Rev. Dan Zoreka of Kinkiizi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Assoc. Prof. Fred Sheldon Mwesigwa of Ankole Diocese, Rt. Rev. Patrick Wakula of Central Busoga Diocese, Rt. Rev. John Wilson Nandaah of Mbale Diocese, and Rt. Rev. Gaddie Akanjuna of Kigezi Diocese. These transitions are a standard part of the church’s leadership succession plan, requiring bishops to retire at the age of 65.

The upcoming retirements will initiate processes for the election and consecration of new bishops, ensuring the continuation of spiritual leadership and administrative functions across the affected dioceses. The Provincial Assembly, a crucial deliberative body for the Church, serves as a platform for discussing matters of faith, governance, and the church’s role in community development.

As these leadership changes approach, the Church of Uganda, a significant institution in the nation’s spiritual, educational, and healthcare sectors, will likely communicate further details regarding the timelines for selecting successors. These transitions are expected to shape the future direction and pastoral focus of the church.

Source: Nile Post