Newly opened St Matthew's Cathedral Buhugu consecrated

Hundreds of Christians from Sironko and Bulambuli districts in North Mbale Diocese on Sunday attended the grand opening and consecration of the newly constructed St Matthew's Cathedral Buhugu.

Archbishop of Church of Uganda Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu was the main celebrant at the joyous event.

At least 20 Church of Uganda bishops, other clergy members, politicians, technocrats, and business leaders attended the consecration service.

Archbishop of Church of Uganda Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu was the main celebrant at the joyous event. (Credit: Paul Watala)

With so many high-profile people in attendance, heavy security deployment was observed.

The ceremony started with a procession and then consecration and blessing of the new cathedral.

Walking into the building, the faithful are welcomed by a biblical extraction from 2 Chronicles 7: 16 that says 'My eyes and heart will always be there'.

Hundreds of Christians from Sironko and Bulambuli districts in North Mbale Diocese attended the grand opening and consecration of the newly constructed St Matthew's Cathedral Buhugu. (Credit: Paul Watala)

It took five years to build this cathedral, which sits on top of Musene hill in Bumalimba village, Buhugu sub-county in Budadiri East.

'Dear brother in the Lord'

Meanwhile, on the eve of Sunday's celebration, Archbishop Kaziimba visited Bugisu Co-operative Union, which is led by Budadiri West MP Nathan Nandala Mafabi.

He was accompanied by fellow bishops, as indicated by pictures of the visit posted on his social media platform X handle.

Joyous Christians during the grand opening and consecration of the newly constructed St Matthew's Cathedral Buhugu. (Credit: Paul Watala)

"I commend the Union for value addition in coffee and creating jobs," said the archbishop.

He also thanked Mafabi and his wife for hosting the visiting bishops at their hotel in Mbale, also noting that the couple "gave 85% to the construction of St Matthew's Cathedral Buhugu".

The couple were recognized for their contribution towards the facility during Sunday's consecration service.

On Saturday, Archbishop Kaziimba and co celebrated Bishop Samuel Gidudu and wife Esther upon making 10 years of episcopal ministry.

"I admire Bishop Gidudu's humility, generosity and simplicity. He is a dear brother in the Lord."

Budadiri West MP Nathan Nandala Mafabi (L) during prayers on Sunday. (Credit: Paul Watala)