Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga has commended Rev Fr Edward Kanyike Mayanja for his 40 years of priesthood and his contribution to promoting Ugandan culture and traditions among communities at home and abroad.
Mayiga’s message was delivered by Buganda Kingdom Minister for Local Government Joseph Kawuki during celebrations marking the priest’s 40 years in ministry at Kiganywa Village, Busubizi Parish, Mityana Municipality.
The milestone was marked with a thanksgiving Mass attended by Bishop Dominic Eyibu of Kotido, other priests, religious leaders, and representatives of the central government and Buganda Kingdom.
In his message, Mayiga praised Rev. Father Mayanja for combining religious service with innovative initiatives that benefit Ugandans and promote their cultural heritage, including among those living abroad.
“Rev. Father Mayanja has demonstrated commitment through his service and innovative work. His contribution to Ugandans, both at home and abroad, is commendable, particularly in the way he has helped promote our culture and traditions,” Mayiga said through his representative.
The celebrations also provided an opportunity for religious leaders to recognise the priest’s longstanding service to the Church and the communities he has served.
Bishop Eyibu, who led the religious leaders at the event, commended Rev. Father Mayanja for his dedication while drawing attention to the difficult living conditions facing communities in the Karamoja sub-region.
He called for greater support for people in Kotido, Moroto and the wider Karamoja region, where many communities continue to face socioeconomic challenges.
“We appreciate Fr Mayanja for the dedicated service he has rendered to the Church over the past 40 years. At the same time, we appeal for support for communities in Kotido, Moroto and Karamoja, where people continue to face difficult living conditions,” Bishop Eyibu said.
For Fr Mayanja, the anniversary was an opportunity to thank God for sustaining him throughout four decades of priesthood.
He expressed gratitude for reaching the milestone despite the challenges encountered during his ministry.
The celebration recognised his years of religious service while highlighting the role of faith leaders in supporting communities and preserving cultural identity.