Teso religious leaders urged to balance prayer with medical care

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Religious leaders across the Teso sub-region have been urged to balance spiritual guidance with medical care, following concerns that some faith leaders mislead followers into believing prayer alone can cure serious illnesses.

The issue was raised during a sensitisation meeting convened by the Ministry of Health at Timisha Hotel. The session aimed at educating religious leaders about their mandate on health matters affecting their congregations.

Bishop Kokas Olupot of Elim Pentecostal Ministries stressed that prayers are important, but must complement medical treatment.

Rev. Edison Omoding and Sam Opus highlighted the dangers posed by unqualified medical providers exploiting rural communities.

Expert Inputs

John Ekapu, Senior Advocacy Officer at the Ministry of Health, underlined the urgency of the message, noting that over 1.5 million Ugandans live with HIV, representing a 4.9% national prevalence.

In Teso, the prevalence is higher among women (6.4%) than men (3.4%), with Soroti City reporting the highest rate at 11.5%. Dr Alfred Anyonga, Soroti City Health Officer, confirmed this data.

Religious leaders were also encouraged to use their platforms to raise awareness about malaria, still a leading killer in Uganda, and other preventable diseases.

Ekapu emphasised that faith leaders are uniquely positioned to educate communities during weekly services, burials, and other gatherings.

Sheikh Abdulai Emuron from Kalaki District supported Bishop Olupot, stressing that religion should complement, not replace, medical treatment.

Rev. Edison Omoding of St. Paul Cathedral Church of Uganda highlighted the threat posed by quack doctors who exploit communities with false promises of cures, collecting large sums from unsuspecting people at the grassroots level.

Sam Opus, Pastor of Pentecostal Assemblies of God in Kidongole sub-county, Bukedea District, urged the Ministry of Health, security agencies, and other stakeholders to take action against errant religious leaders and unqualified health practitioners.

‘Spiritual guidance and practical intervention’

Bishop Olupot referenced Isaiah 38:21, explaining that Prophet Isaiah combined spiritual guidance with practical intervention to heal King Ezekiah, illustrating that faith and medicine can coexist.

Community Engagement

Leaders were urged to use services, burials, and gatherings to deliver health education. Sheikh Abdulai Emuron stressed that religion should operate alongside health principles to save lives.