KAMPALA, October 18, 2025 — The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Norbert Mao, has joined the growing list of national leaders supporting the Rubaga Cathedral renovation campaign, contributing UGX 5 million on behalf of the Democratic Party (DP) to aid preparations for the cathedral’s upcoming centenary celebrations.
The minister handed over the contribution to Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere of the Kampala Archdiocese during a well-attended fundraising event held at the cathedral grounds on Wednesday. The occasion brought together a diverse group of dignitaries, clergy, and Catholic faithful from across Uganda in a strong show of unity and shared commitment to preserving one of the country’s most iconic religious landmarks.
“This is more than a building—it is a house of faith that has stood as a symbol of hope and community for nearly a century,” Mao said, reaffirming the Democratic Party’s support for the Church’s role in fostering moral and social development.
The event, hosted under tents sponsored by Centenary Bank—which had earlier pledged UGX 100 million to the project—also saw a major contribution from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). Representing the army, Brigadier Charles Bakahumura presented a symbolic cheque worth UGX 20 million, underscoring the UPDF’s commitment to preserving Uganda’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
The Association of Mbarara Archdiocese (AMDA) further contributed UGX 10 million, bringing the day’s total collections to UGX 35 million.
Receiving the contributions, Archbishop Ssemogerere expressed gratitude to all donors and commended the collaborative effort between government officials, the military, private institutions, and the faithful.
“This spirit of unity and generosity reflects the essence of our faith. Rubaga Cathedral is not only a monument of worship but also a shared heritage for our nation,” the Archbishop said.
He invited all Catholics and well-wishers to participate in the centenary celebrations scheduled for October 26, themed “The Temple of God is Holy, and You Are the Temple.”
The “Lamaga Yoyoota Lubaga Cathedral at 100” campaign, launched in July, aims to raise UGX 2.4 billion for the cathedral’s renovation, which includes structural restoration and the installation of a state-of-the-art UGX 4.92 billion pipe organ. So far, UGX 1.6 billion has been mobilized from various supporters across Uganda and the diaspora.
Wednesday’s event drew wide participation from clergy, parishioners, business leaders, and public officials, reflecting growing momentum toward achieving the fundraising target ahead of the historic milestone.
As Uganda prepares to mark 100 years of Rubaga Cathedral, the renewed wave of donations underscores the enduring role of the Church as a center of faith, community, and unity—anchoring generations of believers through both worship and service.