Willis Bashasha retained as West Ankole lead of laity

BUSHENYI - The Manifesto Implementation Director at the Office of the President, Willis Bashasha, has been re-elected unopposed as the Head of Laity in the newly constituted 12th Synod of West Ankole Diocese.

At the same sitting, renowned city lawyer and Rotarian, Counsel Ronald Oine Katabarwa, was elected Diocesan Chancellor, replacing Counsel Marvin Baryaruha, who has served in the position for over 12 years.

Bishop dissolves 11th Synod

The Bishop of West Ankole Diocese, Rt Rev Johnson Twinomujuni, officially dissolved the 11th Synod and constituted the 12th Synod during a meeting held at Bweranyangi Hill, in Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality.

The session focused on electing new leadership and forming boards and committees to guide the Diocese over the next four years.

Twinomujuni commended the outgoing members for their service and welcomed the new team, noting they assume office at a critical time in the Diocese’s growth.

“You are joining at a very significant time in the life of this Diocese, when it has already taken off and is now cruising steadily at a stable altitude, gaining momentum, direction and strength,” he said.

He urged the new leadership to prioritise impact-driven service. “The next four years should register solid and measurable progress in all aspects of ministry,” he added.

Achievements highlighted

The Bishop pointed to major milestones registered across different sectors of the Diocese.

On spirituality, he noted continued expansion of evangelism and unity among believers.

“The gospel under our theme 'Love that unites' continues to be spread, leading many to Christ, and there is visible peace, unity and harmony across regions and even among different religious communities,” he said.

Institutionally, the Diocese has recorded significant growth, including the expansion of Ankole Western University to over 4,500 students, Jubilee SACCO portfolio to sh19b, completion of Katungu Hospital, and construction of modern diocesan offices.

The Bishop praying for those who were elected. (Credit: Bruno Mugizi)

Twinomujuni also highlighted strong financial discipline.

“The Diocese fully meets its provincial obligations, pays its staff on time, and has no external debt,” he noted.

In the education sector, he said performance in diocesan schools has improved due to better learning environments.

Key projects, upcoming events

The Bishop revealed that construction of St Peter’s Cathedral will be completed in five months.

He also outlined major upcoming events, including: the Diocesan Thanksgiving Day on May 31, 2026, the Ankole Dioceses Revival Convention in Mbarara in August, hosting and bidding farewell to the Archbishop in November, and the Diocese’s 50th anniversary on January 31, 2027.

New leadership takes office

During the first session of the Synod, Venerable Rev Didas Natweta, Archdeacon of All Saints Greater Bushenyi, was elected Head of Clergy, replacing Rev Canon Godfrey Bejura.

Bashasha, who retained his position unopposed, pledged continued commitment to the Diocese’s mission.

“I remain committed to working with all stakeholders to strengthen the Church’s mission and ensure effective service delivery,” he said.

Newly elected Chancellor Counsel Oine Katabarwa also expressed readiness to serve.

Committees constituted

The Synod also selected members to serve on various boards and committees under the Diocesan Council to strengthen governance and service delivery.

The 12th Synod is expected to steer the Diocese through its next phase of growth, focusing on sustainability, expansion and deepening its spiritual and institutional impact.