The second Annual Youth and Students’ Convention of the North Kigezi Diocese – Kinyasano Church of Uganda was a powerful gathering marked by worship, teaching, inspiration and spiritual renewal.
The convention began on January 9, 2026, with a two-hour evening session of praise and worship, ahead of the official opening on January 10 by the Diocesan Bishop, the Rt Rev Onesimus Asiimwe.
In his opening sermon, Bishop Asiimwe called on young people and students to decisively let go of their past and boldly move forward in faith. He urged them to “burn the bridges” that could lead them back to old habits and past failures. The bishop also highlighted what he described as the “three Fs” — Facts, Fear and Faith, explaining that facts often give rise to fear, which can paralyse individuals and hinder progress. He encouraged the youth to leave their battles to God and to combine prayer with action, emphasising that prayer and action must go hand in hand.
Other speakers addressed key challenges facing young people today. Dr Agrey Ayebazibwe described addiction as a growing and serious concern among Ugandan youth. He noted that drug abuse, excessive alcohol consumption and risky sexual behaviour are increasingly undermining the health, productivity and future of young people.
Dr Ayebazibwe concluded by calling on the youth to seek Jesus Christ as the foundation for freedom and transformation. He urged them to move on from addiction and embrace lives of purpose, integrity and hope.
The convention concluded with a commissioning and Holy Communion service led by Bishop Asiimwe. Quoting Matthew 28:1–8, the bishop said: “You came because Jesus invited you. You have seen the Lord at this convention; now go and tell.” He likened the convention experience to a mountain encounter, noting that while such moments are powerful, believers cannot remain there forever. He urged the youth to be cautious and mindful as they returned to a corrupt world, carrying the message and transformation they had received.
