Bold statement: In 2026, Kasese Diocese will lead Uganda’s Martyrs Day celebrations with a powerful show of faith, unity, and community support—and Centenary Bank is fueling that momentum today. But here’s where it gets controversial: behind the headlines lies a broader conversation about how financial institutions partner with religious and cultural events to shape national identity. This piece rephrases the original with enhanced clarity, keeping all key facts intact while expanding context for beginners.
Centenary Bank, part of the Centenary Group of Companies, has donated UGX 70 million to Kasese Diocese to help organize and prepare for the 2026 Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations. The gift was announced during a fundraising dinner hosted by Kasese Diocese at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala.
Leading the Centenary Group delegation was Centenary Bank Managing Director Fabian Kasi. He joined the event’s chief host, His Grace Francis Aquirinus Kibira, the Bishop of Kasese Diocese, along with other notable attendees, to mark this important milestone as the Diocese prepares to oversee next year’s national Martyrs Day under the theme: "Christ is alive in you and me."
Kasi spoke about the bank’s enduring connection to the Church and its dedication to supporting faith-led initiatives that promote unity, hope, and community development. He noted that, beyond the UGX 70 million cash gift, the Centenary Group—comprising Centenary Bank Uganda, Centenary Technology Services, Centenary Bank Malawi, Centenary Property Development and Management Services, and Centenary Foundation—will assist with printing the official Martyrs Day magazine for 2026.
This collaboration underscores Centenary Bank’s long-standing relationship with the Church through its Social Mission. Over the years, the bank has funded a wide range of church-related projects nationwide, including construction and renovation of church buildings, trainings, women and youth church activities, parish day events, priestly ordinations, pastoral missions, and the donation of pews, choir uniforms, and fabrics.
Bishop Kibira expressed sincere appreciation for the support and highlighted the historical significance of the upcoming celebrations, noting that it marks 20 years since Kasese Diocese last hosted Uganda Martyrs Day. He stressed that the event honors Ugandan martyrs from Catholic, Protestant, and Muslim communities alike as symbols of steadfast faith and courage, and it serves as a moment for spiritual rejuvenation both nationally and internationally. The Bishop invited believers, benefactors, institutions, and international partners to join forces in supporting this noble cause.
Regarding the 2026 theme, Bishop Kibira called for renewed unity across faiths and nationalities, pointing to participation from neighboring dioceses and international pilgrims as evidence of a shared commitment to peace and pride in Ugandan heritage.
Centenary Bank reiterates its commitment to initiatives that strengthen communities, preserve spiritual heritage, and promote national unity. In that spirit, the bank views its support for the Kasese Diocese and the Martyrs Day celebrations as part of a broader effort to contribute to sustainable development, cultural continuity, and inclusive national dialogue.
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