Renowned evangelist Gary Skinner has asked religious leaders to make the fight against corruption and moral decay their gospel, saying the two vices are impediments to development of the nation.
Pastor Skinner made the call during the launch of his memoir, "A Memoir of Courage Over Fear: Where Faith Lit the Way", in Kampala.
Speaking to journalists, Skinner, the founder pastor of Kampala Pentecostal Church (now Watoto Church), reflected on the 40-year journey of the church and its mission to instill a culture of integrity, humility, and excellence among the youth of Uganda.
He said the early challenges the church faced, including insecurity and the lack of basic supplies, and the transformative role the church has played in addressing these issues.
"The greatest challenge initially was the insecurity and theft. We lost the first two cars we drove at gunpoint," Skinner recounted.
"Today, we still face the challenge of corruption, which constricts the potential of our people, especially the youth. They feel they must compromise to advance, and this is something we need to change."
Skinner said there was a need for servant leadership at all levels, calling for a shift from dictatorial and manipulative leadership to one that truly serves the people.
"Whether you're a doctor, teacher, pastor, or politician, you are supposed to serve. We must build a nation of servant leaders," he said.
In his memoir, Skinner narrates the significant social initiatives undertaken by Watoto Church, including the rescue of over 5,000 orphaned children, 500 child soldiers from Northern Uganda, and nearly 7,000 vulnerable women struggling to raise their children.
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These efforts, he noted, are not just about providing aid but empowering individuals to become productive citizens.
Skinner also addressed the influence of Western powers on Ugandan values, particularly concerning moral practices and dependency on foreign aid.
"There are pressures to adopt corrupt moral practices that are not healthy for nation-building. We should not depend on aid but build a self-sufficient Africa through trade and proper use of our resources," he said.
Highlighting Uganda's vast potential, Skinner pointed out the country's agricultural capacity, mineral resources, and the intelligence and industriousness of its youth.
Skinner called on the young people of Uganda to rise to the challenge and build a new Africa based on moral integrity and servant leadership.
"My role as a pastor is to build a moral foundation and inspire young people to take that into the streets, marketplaces, and all areas of life," he said.
Skinner concluded with an optimistic vision for Uganda's future, expressing his belief that the best years are ahead as the next generation embraces the values of integrity and servant leadership.
"We are building a new Uganda, a new Africa, built on the culture of Jesus," he said.
The event was attended by various dignitaries, religious leaders, and members of the public, all of whom echoed the call for a united effort in fighting corruption and fostering a culture of excellence and integrity in Uganda.
