New Leadership Team announced for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Uganda

Kampala, Uganda – The Seventh-day Adventist Church in Uganda received its top leadership team for the Uganda Union Mission (UUM), to serve from 2025 to 2030. The appointments were announced at the close of the church’s extended council meetings held in Nairobi, Kenya, marking the beginning of a new five-year strategic term.

Pr. Samuel Kajoba elected President

At the head of the Union is Pastor Samuel Kajoba, 67, who has been appointed as President. Pastor Kajoba has more than 30 years of service in the church, having previously served as chaplain, district leader, departmental director, and most recently as Executive President of the Central Uganda Conference.
He holds a Bachelor of Theology from Bugema University and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Theology from the Adventist University of Africa, Nairobi. He is married to Margaret Kajoba, and together they have six children. His leadership is expected to provide continuity and experience as the church consolidates its growth across the country.

Former President, Dr. Moses Maka Ndimukika

The legacy of former UUM President Dr. Moses Maka Ndimukika is both commendable and inspiring. In just three years at the helm, he steered the church to remarkable growth in membership, championing the transformative slogan “From Spectators to Disciple Makers.”

As Chancellor and Council Chair of the church’s university, Dr. Maka oversaw significant institutional progress. His tenure witnessed a notable increase in student enrollment, the appointment of a substantive Vice Chancellor, and the streamlining of governance through the separation of powers, culminating in his decision to cede the position of Council Chair to strengthen leadership structures.

His impact also extended to the media and the communication ministry. Working closely with Pastor Immanuel Ogwal, Adventist World Radio (AWR) Africa Regional Director, Dr. Maka played a pivotal role in expanding Adventist radio presence across Uganda, ensuring that nearly every region now has a station to spread the gospel.

Beyond church growth and institutional reforms, Dr. Maka invested in building human capital. He encouraged professionals across diverse fields to pursue training in theology, laying a foundation for a strong pool of well-equipped leaders with both professional and theological expertise.

Pastor Bitamazire re-elected Executive Secretary

The position of Executive Secretary has been filled by Pastor Nicholas Birigwa Bitamazire, 44 years old. A trained physicist and theologian, he holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics and Mathematics from Makerere University, a Bachelor of Theology from Bugema University, and a Master of Arts in Religion from the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies, Philippines. He is currently pursuing doctoral studies in Theology at the Adventist University of Africa in Nairobi. Pastor Bitamazire has served as teacher, chaplain, district leader, lecturer, and, since 2023, as Executive Secretary of the Union. He is married to Rachael Nakibuuka, and the couple has five children. His appointment is viewed as a nod to the church’s emphasis on academic rigor and structured administration.

Finance Portfolio Entrusted to Experienced Treasurer

The financial stewardship of the Union will be overseen by Elder Isaac Lyada, 40, who has been appointed Executive Treasurer. He brings 12 years of treasury service within the church, having previously served as Field Treasurer in both the Eastern Uganda Field and Mid-Eastern Uganda Field.
Elder Lyada holds a Bachelor of Business Administration (Accounting) and a Master of Business Administration (Accounting and Finance), both from Bugema University. He is married to Jesca Konghai, a professional teacher, and they have four children. His appointment is expected to strengthen financial management and accountability within the Union.

Outlook for the 2025–2030 Term

The Adventist Church in Uganda continues to grow in membership and influence, particularly in the education and health sectors, where it operates a university, schools, colleges, and health facilities across the country. The new leadership team is tasked with consolidating this growth, strengthening governance structures, and expanding the church’s community service initiatives.

Observers note that with a balance of experience in pastoral ministry, academic depth, and financial management, the new leadership is well-positioned to guide the church in addressing the spiritual and socio-economic needs of its members and the wider society.