By Joyce Namutebi
ABOUT 500 Anglican bishops from Africa, Lambeth Palace representatives and church leaders are to meet in Uganda to discuss challenges to development.

The Second All Africa Bishops Conference, estimated to cost $850,000 (about sh1.6b), will lay emphasis on peace, reconciliation, compassion, good governance and poverty, said Edward Gaamuwa, the organising committee chairman.

Addressing journalists at Namirembe yesterday, Gaamuwa said the conference is being held at a time when Africa is at the crossroads.

He said despite the abundant natural resources on the continent, there is increasing poverty and moral decay amidst mushrooming churches.

Gaamuwa also listed conflicts and disillusionment among the youth as other challenges.

During the conference scheduled for August 23 to 28 at the Imperial Resort Beach Hotel, Entebbe, the bishops will explore ways of restoring compassionate and accountable leaders on the continent, he said.

They will also tackle the obstacles to Christianity, conflict, poverty, diseases, corruption, poor leadership, restlessness and hopelessness.

The event, Gaamuwa said, also aims at exposing church leaders to various resource models, investment and management, and creating a platform for networking.

The first conference was held in Lagos, Nigeria in 2004 under the theme, “Africa has come of age.”

This year’s theme is, “Securing our future; Unlocking our potential.”

Other members of the organising committee appointed by Archbishop Luke Orombi include Gen. Elly Tumwine, Vivian Igundura, Jane Kabaale and George Nyeko.