The Minister of Finance, Matia Kasaija, has pledged more support towards the completion of the Presbytery (Priests’ residence and shrine offices) and other works at the shrine including the pavilion to boost religious tourism.

Minister Kasaija on Tuesday March 12, 2024 visited Uganda Martyrs' Catholic Shrine Namugongo to inspect the construction works for the Presbytery which is part of the overall plan to redevelop the Catholic Shrine into a modern facility.

The Ministry of Finance in January last year approved and transferred sh3.5 billion to support the completion of the required sh8.9 billion for the Presbytery.

Kasaija was received by Rev. Fr. Vincent Lubega, the Rector of the Shrine, Very Rev. Msgr.Gerald Kalumba, the Vicar General, Kampala Archdiocese and Parish Priest Christ the King Church Kampala and Rev. Fr. Dr. Pius Male the Chancellor Kampala Archdiocese.

Minister of Finance, Matia Kasaija during the inspection

The finance minister hailed the partnership that exists between the Church and Government in improving the lives of the people of God adding that Government will continue supporting the work of God.

He commended the progress made at the Presbytery and thanked the leadership of the Catholic Church for the commitment to complete the work.

He urged the religious leaders to preach the word of God with boldness and win souls for Christ.

The Chancellor, Rev. Fr Dr. Pius Male thanked President Yoweri Museveni and the finance minister for fulfilling part of the pledge to redevelop the Catholic Shrine especially the Presbyter adding that more support is needed to complete the work.