The St Austin Catholic Church has launched an ambitious fundraising campaign to raise UGX 3.6 billion for the expansion of its premises, citing an overwhelming increase in the number of worshippers.
Constructed in 1944, the church currently accommodates just over 500 Christians, a number that leaders say is far below the growing demand.
According to Francis Xavier Watikha, chairperson of the organizing committee for the expansion, the project aims to increase capacity to more than 2,000 congregants.
“We want to expand the church so that it can accommodate over 2,000 Christians,”
Watikha said. “At the moment, the church is overwhelmed by the large number of believers who come to pray.”
Watikha added that Mbale’s elevation to city status has increased the need for a larger place of worship.
“Mbale is now a city, and St Austin is a city church. It must be big enough to serve the growing population of Christians,” he noted.
So far, organizers say they have raised UGX 140 million—just a fraction of the required UGX 3.6 billion.
While officially Launching the fundraising drive today at the church promises Several leaders and well-wishers have already made contributions and pledges toward the cause.
Hon John Musila MP Bubulo East in Namisindwa district pledged UGX 8 million, with UGX 1.5 million paid in cash.
Other contributions included UGX 1 million in cash and a pledge of UGX 2 million from Hon Umar Nangoli MP Elect Northern City Division.
Woman MP Elect Mbale City Hon Lydia Wanyoto Pledged 1million and UGX 1 million in cash plus a UGX 4 million pledge from Hon Agnes Amende Woman MP of Butebo district
Representing the Executive Director of Centenary Bank, Regional Manager Eastern Sarah Achan pledged UGX 10 million toward the project.
Hon Karim Masaba MP Industrial City in Mbale City who represented the Speaker of Parliament as chief guest, donated 100 bags of cement and UGX 1 million in cash.
He also delivered a pledge of UGX 50 million from the Speaker of Parliament.
Parish priest Father Joseph Kibeti expressed gratitude to all contributors.
“We appreciate all Christians and well-wishers who have stood with us and supported this cause,” he said. “We appeal to more people to come forward and support the construction of God’s house.”
He emphasized that the expansion would significantly improve worship conditions.
“Expanding the church will give us enough space and allow more believers to worship comfortably,” Father Kibeti added.
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