Museveni Lauds East African Revival for 90 Years of Social Uplift in Ankole

President Yoweri Museveni recently lauded the East African Revival for its significant contributions to social transformation in the Ankole region spanning 90 years. Speaking at the 90th anniversary celebrations of the East African Revival in Greater Ankole, held at St. John’s Cathedral, Ruharo in Mbarara City, Museveni emphasized the movement’s role in addressing prevalent social issues.

The Revival, which took root in Ankole in 1936, has been credited with encouraging communities to confront challenges such as alcoholism, dishonesty, adultery, poor hygiene, and harmful traditional beliefs. Simultaneously, it promoted values like education, discipline, and responsible Christian living.

The five-day Ankole Revival Convention was themed “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever,” referencing Hebrews 13:8. This spiritual movement has deeply influenced the social and spiritual fabric of communities across East Africa over the decades.

Museveni, reflecting on his personal history with the location, shared that his family’s engagement with the Church of Uganda was a gradual process. He noted that his great-grandfather and grandfathers were initially hesitant to join, with his father, mother, and himself being the first in their direct line to join the Church in 1947. He recounted his first visit to the cathedral compound 77 years prior, a deeply personal experience that marked a significant moment in his family’s religious journey.

He also recalled attending the 50th anniversary of the Church’s presence in Ankole in 1949 with his parents and sister, Dr. Kajubiri. A memorable anecdote from that event involved him briefly getting lost after following a woman whose attire resembled his mother’s, only to be found by his father, Mzee Kaguta. Museveni further reminisced about his subsequent returns to Ankole for his education in 1953 and 1959, highlighting that prayer was an integral part of their daily lives during that period.

“I really thank God to see that I come back here 77 years after I came here. Praise be the Lord,” he concluded, expressing gratitude for the enduring spiritual and social impact of the Revival.

This article was reported by Nile Post.