By Weswa Ronnie
MBALE CITY
St. Austin Catholic Church in Mbale City is set to hold its second fundraising drive on 12th July 2026, seeking to raise over UGX 3.6 billion for the expansion of the church premises.
The Parish Pastoral Council, Church Expansion Committee, and the entire Christian community invite political leaders, government officials, business communities, civil society organizations, well-wishers, and Christians from within and outside Mbale to support the cause. The event will begin with Holy Mass at 9:30am at St. Austin Catholic Church.
The expansion campaign was launched on 22nd March 2026 following the growing number of worshippers. Built in 1944, the church currently accommodates about 500 Christians, a capacity that has been overtaken by the increasing congregation.
Francis Xavier Watikha, Chairperson of the Expansion Committee told Christians Sunday, 5th July, 2026 during church service that the project aims to increase the church’s capacity to over 2,000 worshippers.
Watikha said construction works have already started with support from various well-wishers and are progressing steadily.
Parish Priest, Fr. Joseph Martin Kibeti appreciated all individuals and organizations that have supported the project, including political leaders, government departments, and private institutions, while calling upon more people to contribute towards building a bigger house of God.
The church has received support from leaders including Hon. John Musila, Hon. Umar Nangoli, Hon. Lydia Wanyoto, Hon. Agnes Amende, Hon. Karim Masaba, Centenary Bank, and the Ministry of Water and Environment. The church is also awaiting a pledge of Shs50 million from former Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Annet Anita Among.
