Lira, Uganda – St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Anai Parish, has received generous donations from Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, Minister of Health and Woman MP for Lira City and Betty Amongi Akena, Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development and Woman MP for Oyam South, during its official opening on February 16, 2025.
Dr. Aceng contributed UGX 20 million towards the purchase of seats for the new parish, which was officially elevated from a sub-parish to a full parish on this historic day.
Speaking at the event, she emphasized her commitment to serving Lira City despite political competition ahead of the 2026 elections.
She expressed confidence that voters would base their choices on past performance and vowed to continue practicing politics of love.
Hon. Betty Amongi, who has declared her bid for the Lira City Woman MP seat in 2026, also made a donation of UGX 10 million and pledged an additional UGX 10 million on February 17, 2025, to further support the parish.
She echoed Dr. Aceng’s sentiments, vowing to run a peaceful and issue-based campaign as she seeks to unseat the incumbent.
During the ceremony, Lira City West MP Sodrick Obong Eyit praised the Comboni Missionaries for their historical role in transforming communities through education and healthcare.
He acknowledged their contributions in building schools and hospitals, which have significantly improved the lives of the people in Lango.
Bishop Sanctus Linos Wanok of Lira Diocese, who presided over the event, commended both ministers for their presence and support.
He called on political leaders to uphold peaceful and constructive politics, urging them to focus on solutions to the challenges affecting their constituents rather than engaging in divisive rhetoric.
As part of the celebrations, Fr. Isaac Ojok was officially installed as the first Parish Priest of Anai Parish.
St. Peter’s Chapel in Anai was first established in 1949 and later granted sub-parish status on December 15, 2020.
After decades of spiritual and infrastructural growth, it was officially elevated to a full parish on February 16, 2025, marking a major milestone in the Catholic Church’s presence in the region.
The event was attended by clergy, politicians, and hundreds of Christians who gathered to celebrate this long-awaited achievement.
