Mbarara Archdiocese Empowers Children Through Sugarcane Farming for Development Fund

The Archdiocese of Mbarara is initiating a unique development drive that involves its youngest members: children are being encouraged to grow sugarcane. The initiative aims to raise Shs300 million for the Archdiocese of Mbarara Development Fund (AMDEF).

Archbishop Lambert Bainomugisha announced the plan during Mass at Our Lady of Mercy Ibanda Parish, challenging every child to plant sugarcane, sell a portion of their harvest, and contribute Shs1,000 annually to support church-run institutions, particularly in education and health.

Archbishop Bainomugisha emphasized that the community, not just the church, shares responsibility for the upkeep and expansion of institutions that have served them for years. He cautioned against viewing the church as an NGO, stressing the need for beneficiaries to contribute to its sustainability.

Local Members of Parliament, Peter Agaba and Jovrine Kaliisa, have lauded the initiative. Kaliisa highlighted the critical role of church-founded health facilities like Uganda Martyrs Hospital Ibanda in providing essential services to the community over the decades.

Father Professor Peter Kanyandago, Episcopal Vicar for Ibanda District, explained that the sugarcane project is designed to be easily implemented, fostering self-reliance among children while generating vital funds for educational infrastructure. He noted that the funds could be used for building schools, purchasing educational materials, and renovating facilities.

This forward-thinking approach aims to ensure the continued development and service provision of the Archdiocese’s institutions for future generations. The campaign seeks to harness the collective power of small contributions from many children to achieve a significant financial goal.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/mbarara-archdiocese-turns-to-sugarcane-to-raise-development-funds-5632142