Uganda’s Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Jonard Asiimwe, has called on political and community leaders to promote peace, unity and forgiveness, saying lasting development depends on cooperation and a shared commitment to improving people’s lives.
Asiimwe made the remarks during a thanksgiving Mass at Bujumbura Catholic Parish in Hoima City, where Christians from the Hoima Catholic Diocese gathered alongside religious leaders, local officials and residents for a service centered on faith, leadership and public service.
Addressing the congregation, the minister said divisions within communities can slow development and urged leaders to place the interests of citizens above personal or political differences.
“Peace, unity and forgiveness are important foundations for development and national cohesion,” Asiimwe said. “When communities work together and leaders focus on serving the common good, it becomes easier to improve livelihoods and create opportunities for everyone.”
The thanksgiving service also highlighted the role of faith institutions in encouraging ethical leadership and community responsibility.
Monsignor Robert Mugisa, the Vicar General of Hoima Catholic Diocese, praised Asiimwe’s commitment to public service and encouraged him to remain steadfast in his leadership.
“Blessings go to the brave, but God reserves His blessings for all. Hon. Jonard, you are a brave man and blessed,” Mugisa told the congregation.
Among those attending the service was Dr. Fred Kabagambe-Kaliisa, Senior Presidential Advisor on Oil, Gas and Minerals and chairperson of the TotalEnergies Advisory Commission. He spoke about his long association with Asiimwe, describing him as a dedicated leader capable of handling national responsibilities and emphasizing the importance of mentorship in preparing future leaders.
Reflecting on his own journey, Asiimwe credited Kabagambe-Kaliisa for providing guidance that helped shape his career. He encouraged young Ugandans to seek mentorship, remain disciplined and pursue education as they prepare to contribute to national development.
He also urged young people to respect parents, teachers and elders, saying their experience and guidance are essential in nurturing responsible leadership.
Beyond his message, Asiimwe pledged support for community initiatives through donations aimed at improving health care and education in the region.
He contributed 400 bags of cement toward the construction of St. Mary’s Children and Women Specialized Hospital, a diocesan project expected to expand access to specialized medical services in Hoima and the wider Bunyoro sub-region.
The minister also donated 2 million Ugandan shillings to St. Bernadette Model Primary School to help purchase textbooks and strengthen learning resources for pupils.
Church leaders welcomed the contributions, saying partnerships between government, faith-based institutions and local communities play an important role in addressing social needs.
The thanksgiving concluded with prayers for peace, national unity and wisdom for Uganda’s leaders, as religious and civic leaders alike emphasized that development is best achieved through collaboration, service and mutual respect.
