Kigezi Sub-Region Grapples with Soaring Poverty, Minister Musasizi Calls for Action

KABALE – State Minister of Finance for General Duties Henry Musasizi has called on religious leaders in the Kigezi to join forces with the government and combat rising poverty levels in the region.

Musasizi, who is also the Rubanda East Legislator, made the remarks during the 2024 Bishop’s Annual Appeal Fund Final Ceremony at Rushoroza Cathedral Grounds. The fundraising ceremony presided over by Kabale Diocese Bishop Callistus Rubaramira aimed to raise Shs. 1.5 billion to facilitate the construction of a church-owned commercial building in Kabale town.

He revealed that the latest government statistics indicate a 27% poverty rate in the Kigezi Sub-Region, exceeding the national rate of 21%.

“The latest statistics show that poverty in Kigezi is increasing, from 24% previously,” Musasizi said.

Musasizi noted that it is time for religious leaders to join hands with the government in sensitizing and mobilizing the populace towards embracing government programs aimed at alleviating poverty at the household level.

“My Lord Bishop, it is time you and your team intensify dissemination of messages that help our people to get out of the poverty line, especially by embracing the government poverty alleviation programs,” Musasizi said.

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At the same event, Minister of ICT and National Guidance Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, who represented the Chief Guest, Vice President Maj. Rtd. Jessica Alupo, announced that President Yoweri Museveni would visit the Kigezi Sub-Region to monitor the performance of poverty alleviation programs, especially the Parish Development Model.

According to Baryomunsi, Museveni is expected to start his three-day regional tour around Kigezi in February this year.

He further explained that the President would hold a number of activities, including visitation of model agricultural farms, meetings with regional leaders, and media engagements.

CUE IN …BARYOMUNSI

Meanwhile, a total of Shs. 1.9 billion was raised to support the 2024 BAAF projects, surpassing the initial target of Shs. 1.5 billion. Bishop Callistus Rubaramira expressed gratitude to Christians of Kabale Diocese, partners, and well-wishers who generously contributed to the success of the 2024 BAAF Program.

Rushoroza Cathedral Parish in Kabale District was ranked as the best performer, while Rukungiri District raised the largest amount of funds to support the program.

The event concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony led by Bishop Callistus Rubaramira.