Leaders urged on fighting corruption, bad leadership in Church institutions

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The Catholic Church in Uganda, which oversees a vast network of schools, hospitals, development agencies and parish programmes, faces mounting challenges in leadership integrity and institutional management.

Clergy and lay leaders alike grapple with corruption, resource limitations, outdated governance practices, and the pressure to adapt to evolving societal needs. To address these issues, Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) Nkozi has launched a specialised short course aimed at equipping church leaders with skills to enhance governance, accountability, and ethical decision-making.

A call for ethical leadership

During the launch of the six-day programme on July 28, 2025, at UMU’s Nkozi campus in Mpigi district, Msgr. Charles Kasibante, representing Kampala Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere, underscored the urgency of the initiative.

“Surrounded by corruption, greed, and mismanagement, church leaders must embody integrity, transparency and accountability,” he said. “Prayer alone is insufficient. We must be intentional in managing resources, treating employees fairly and making principled decisions.”



The course, attended by over 30 participants from dioceses nationwide, focuses on practical solutions for challenges such as financial mismanagement, poor record-keeping and weak strategic planning.

UMU deputy vice-chancellor the Rev. Fr Dr Christopher Mukidi, said even institutions rooted in faith struggle with outdated leadership styles that harm the church’s credibility.

“This training is a critical step toward transforming how church institutions operate,” he said.

Building competence and trust

UMU vice-chancellor Prof. Patrick Kyamanywa emphasised core values of accountability, integrity and excellence.

“If leadership falters, congregants will leave for other churches. We must remain ethical, adaptable, and committed to improvement,” he urged.

The curriculum, facilitated by Ambrose Kibuuka Mukiibi, covers modern governance tools, financial sustainability strategies, stakeholder engagement, and innovative outreach methods. Participants will also explore ways to strengthen congregation ties and implement transparent systems to rebuild public trust.

More than spiritual guidance

The initiative reflects a growing recognition that effective leadership in church institutions requires more than spiritual guidance—it demands professional competence. By addressing governance gaps and fostering accountability, the program aims to preserve the church’s mission and relevance in a rapidly changing society. As the first cohort progresses, stakeholders hope it will inspire a new generation of leaders capable of steering church institutions toward ethical resilience.