Uganda: Overcrowding Plagues Karamoja's Oldest Church

27 January 2025

The church, originally designed to accommodate 50 worshippers, now struggles to hold over 500 devoted members each Sunday.

St Peter's Church of Uganda, located in Kiru Town Council, about 10 kilometres from Abim Town, is one of Karamoja's oldest churches.

Built in the early 1960s, it stands as a symbol of faith and resilience.

Yet, its congregation now faces severe challenges, with overcrowding and lack of basic amenities turning worship into a weekly ordeal.

The church, originally designed to accommodate 50 worshippers, now struggles to hold over 500 devoted members each Sunday.

The overcrowded, poorly ventilated space leaves congregants sweating and gasping for air as they endure long services, often lasting until midday.

"We don't have anywhere else to go. We are devoted, but this is very difficult," shared Nancy Akongo, a congregation member, wiping sweat from her brow.

"Every Sunday we come, and we know we will be uncomfortable, but we must keep our faith."

The situation is particularly dire for vulnerable members of the community, including the elderly and people with disabilities, who struggle to find a place to sit amidst the cramped conditions.

Adding to the congregation's woes, the church's Archdeacon, Reverend Alfred Okello, lacks proper housing within the community.

He is forced to commute from outside Kiru, which limits his ability to minister to his flock beyond Sunday services.

"I am grateful for the congregation, but it's not easy. There's no house for me here. I have to travel each day, which takes time away from my pastoral duties," Reverend Okello explained.

Despite the hardships, the congregation remains determined. They have started collecting funds to improve the church, but progress is slow due to the financial struggles of many members.

"We have reached out to several leaders, but no one seems to care about our struggle," lamented Bosco Okore, another church member.

"We need a new, bigger church that can accommodate us. Our reverend needs a house. The elderly and disabled need proper seating and space to worship in peace."

Local leaders, regional clerics, and government officials have been criticized for neglecting the church's plight, with appeals for help going unanswered.

Reverend Okello, however, remains optimistic. "We are praying and hoping that someone will see our need and assist us.

A bigger church would make a huge difference for the people of Kiru, and we trust that with God's grace, we will overcome this challenge."

As the Sunday service concluded on January 26, 2025, the faithful slowly made their way out of the church, exhausted but steadfast in their devotion.

Their hope remains that one day, their prayers for a larger, more accommodating place of worship will be answered.

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