South Rwenzori Diocese plots mindset change sessions to avert extremism in 2026
The development follows a November 1, 2025, attack on military installations in the region that left 41 suspects killed, 91 arrested, a Uganda People's Defence Forces soldier dead, and six Police officers injured.
A group photo including Bishop Nason Baluku of South Rwenzori Diocese together with the newly commissioned lay readers. He urged them to preach about mindset change in their respective communities. (Photo by Samuel Amanyire)
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The South Rwenzori Anglican Diocese says it plans in the new year to implement community-wide mindset transformation programmes to counter extremism.
The development follows a November 1, 2025, attack on military installations in the region that left 41 suspects killed, 91 arrested, a Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) soldier dead, and six Police officers injured.
According to Bishop Nason Baluku and Kasese Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Lt. Joe Walusimbi, there is a need for urgent action to address underlying beliefs fuelling violence during their Christmas messages, delivered amid heightened security ahead of the 2026 General Election.
Lt. Joe Walusimbi, the Kasese Resident Distrit Commissioner (RDC). (Photo by Samuel Amanyire)
The November 1 attacks targeted Police barracks in Kasese municipality, Rugendabara and districts, including Bundibugyo, Ntoroko and Fort Portal city.
Baluku, addressing a Christmas carol service at St Paul’s Cathedral in Kasese on December 19, expressed shock at community members' continued belief in witchcraft and traditional medicine to resist security forces.
“Imagine in this generation, people still believe that traditional medicine can stop bullets!” he said, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
To address these beliefs, Baluku said the diocese will roll out mindset change sessions in 2026, focusing on regions most affected by extremism.
“Religious leaders must weave messages of peace and morality into every sermon,” he said, adding that education and moral grounding are pillars of development.
The bishop linked education to long-term stability, urging families to prioritise schooling.
“Education is the strongest foundation for progress,” he said, urging communities to abandon harmful practices and embrace critical thinking.
Security assurances and election caution
Walusimbi said they had reinforced security measures.
“We’ve tightened patrols along the DR Congo border at Mpondwe and across the district,” he said.
He, however, warned politicians exploiting crises for sympathy votes, saying those burning their own homes or properties to manipulate public support will face consequences.