Strengthening families will build better citizens, says SDA Church

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The Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church in Uganda has called for renewed efforts to strengthen families, describing them as the cornerstone of a stable and prosperous society.

Speaking to journalists at his office at the Uganda Union Mission headquarters, the Church’s national leader, Pastor Samuel Kajoba, said building strong families must be a top priority for religious institutions and community leaders alike.

Kajoba added that families shape future leaders, parents and citizens, making guidance and moral grounding within the home essential for national development.

He urged faith-based organisations and local leaders to intentionally invest in family-focused initiatives within their communities.

In his New Year message delivered on December 31, 2025, Kajoba outlined the Church’s key priorities, highlighting family life, health, and the overall well-being of the population as central to its mission in 2026.

“Strong families build strong communities and strong communities build a strong nation,” he said.

He added that the SDA Church will remain committed to strengthening families, promoting healthy lifestyles and serving vulnerable populations through their churches, schools and health institutions.

According to Kajoba, nurturing family values and improving people’s well-being form part of the Church’s responsibility and align closely with Uganda’s broader national development agenda.

Looking ahead to 2026, Kajoba identified preaching the Word of God and grounding believers firmly in the Bible as additional priorities.

He stressed the importance of spiritual growth and faithful living, noting that a nation thrives when its citizens reflect God’s love in their daily lives.

“We desire that all people grow spiritually and help others come to know God better,” he said.

Citing scriptures Psalm 24:1 and 2 Corinthians 4:2 from the bible, he reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to Christian stewardship, reminding believers that all resources belong to God and must be managed faithfully for the common good.

Peaceful living

Kajoba also pledged continued advocacy for peaceful living, dialogue, tolerance and reconciliation to strengthen national unity.

He emphasised the Church’s role in promoting responsible citizenship rooted in honesty, respect for the law, and moral accountability, while maintaining a non-partisan stance.

He further revealed plans to expand youth programmes aimed at nurturing ethical leadership, life skills, and hope for sustainable livelihoods, noting that empowered and mentored young people are vital to Uganda’s progress.

He further called on Ugandans to recommit themselves to faithfulness, peace, justice, and mutual respect.

In the forthcoming elections, Kajoba urged all Ugandans, especially the young people, to reject any form of manipulation that at times, might lead to division and violence, but rather choose peaceful engagement and dialogues to safeguard the future of Uganda.

He also appealed to the Electoral Commission, political players, public servants and security agencies to uphold integrity and fairness in the exercise of their duties.

“Uganda belongs to all of us, and its future is shaped by the choices we make today. On behalf of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Uganda, I wish all Ugandans a peaceful end to 2025 and a new year guided by the Holy Spirit, unity, and the fear of God,” he said.