Mukono Diocese is turning to the community and well-wishers through a fundraising run as it intensifies efforts to raise the estimated Shs5 billion needed to complete its new diocesan cathedral.
The run, scheduled for October 3, 2026, is expected to bring together more than 20,000 participants, with the cathedral premises serving as the starting point before runners proceed through the surrounding communities.
Bishop Enos Kagodo said the initiative is part of a wider fundraising campaign aimed at mobilising Christians and other supporters to contribute towards completing what he described as a major project for the diocese.
“We are looking for about Shs5 billion to complete this noble work. This is one of the ways of collecting money,” Bishop Kagodo said.
The diocese has also been using fundraising envelopes, with Christians encouraged to contribute Shs20,000 towards the construction. For the run, participants can similarly support the project by purchasing a jersey at Shs20,000.
The bishop said the fundraising drive is intended not only to raise money but also to give Christians an opportunity to take ownership of a project expected to serve the diocese for generations.
Once completed, the cathedral is projected to accommodate between 5,000 and 6,000 worshippers, significantly expanding the diocese’s capacity to host major religious gatherings.
The project has also attracted support from the private sector, with Eurofoam pledging to contribute 100 bags of cement and provide 200 running jerseys for participants who may be unable to afford them.
Claire Kemigisha, the Eurofoam marketing manager, said the company intends to remain involved until the cathedral project is completed.
She said the 200 jerseys would be distributed to communities, particularly people who are willing to participate in the run but cannot afford the registration jersey.
Beyond supporting the fundraising campaign, Eurofoam will provide mattresses as prizes for winners in different race categories.
Centenary Bank, a major promoter of the run, has also contributed 142 bags of cement towards the cathedral project.
The bank said it would continue supporting the initiative while encouraging participants to embrace digital payment channels rather than carrying cash during fundraising activities.
For the diocese, the October run represents more than a sporting event. It is an appeal for collective action around a project whose completion is expected to provide Mukono with a larger and more permanent centre of worship.
With more than 20,000 people targeted, the diocese hopes the event will turn individual contributions into a significant step towards completing the cathedral.
ENDS.
English 