“All in all, love your country and instill the same love in your children. You never know; they could make things change for the better as they grow up,” he said.
CAO, 12 Other District Officials Arrested, Interdicted Over Corruption
The Parish Priest of St Andrew Kaggwa Kichwa Mpoma Parish, Fr Denis Kibirige, has urged Ugandans to strengthen their love for the country despite rising living costs, increasing fuel prices and the weakening shilling.
Fr. Kibirige also called on parents to instill patriotism in their children, saying the younger generation could play a vital role in transforming Uganda for the better future.
He made the appeal during his homily at the parish’s morning Mass on Friday as Uganda marked its 64th Independence Day.
In an unusual start to his homily, Fr. Kibirige led the congregation in singing the Uganda National Anthem before delivering his message on patriotism and national responsibility.
The priest, however, expressed concern about the economic hardships facing Ugandans, particularly the rising cost of fuel, which he said had made it increasingly difficult for some motorists to maintain their private vehicles.
He noted that some people had been forced to park their vehicles because they could no longer afford to fuel them.
“All in all, love your country and instill the same love in your children. You never know; they could make things change for the better as they grow up,” he said.
Rising Fuel Prices, Weak Shilling
Kibirige’s message came amid mounting concerns over the cost of living, with fuel prices rising alongside pressure on the Uganda shilling against the US dollar.
According to fuel-price data published on October 5, petrol was averaging about sh6,875 per litre, while diesel cost approximately sh6,725 per litre.
The shilling has also weakened significantly. The Bank of Uganda’s closing mid-rate on Thursday, October 8, stood at approximately sh4,085.71 per US dollar, amid increased demand for foreign currency.
Jinja RDC Cautions Balaam Against Public Arrests at Anti-corruption Rallies
On October 8, Parliament pressed the Government to explain the rising fuel prices, with Energy and Mineral Development Minister Dr Monica Musenero attributing the increases to international petroleum costs, the depreciation of the shilling and a sh200-per-litre increase in fuel excise duty introduced in the 2026/2027 financial year.
The pressures have raised concerns about transport and other household expenses, with fuel costs affecting businesses and the movement of goods and services.
Despite these challenges, Kibirige urged Ugandans not to abandon their love for the country, but instead to nurture a generation committed to its development.
Uganda Marks 64 Years of Independence
Uganda attained independence from British colonial rule on October 9, 1962, and this year marked 64 years since the historic milestone.
Unlike previous national celebrations held at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala, the main government function this year was held at State House in Entebbe, with attendance limited to invited guests.
