Solving the problem question:

ANALYSING THE IMPACT & INFLUENCE OF THIS MOVEMENT.

 The impact and the influence of this movement is broad and wide; can  not be articulated fully but I Kivumbi Earnest Benjamin hereby come with what I am sure of, backed with evidence and Can be subjected to scrutiny and verification

What a privilege to host them!

It’s crucial to understand that partially Pentecostals stood at front in the bringing down of dictators in this nation. This was re-writing the books of history, the world should agree with me.

Between 1970-1980 human rights violation such as denying of freedom of speech, expression, and worship; massive killings and sudden disappearance of citizens, public execution, torture and insecurity prevailed.

Pentecostals stood the test of time as specific presidents persecuted and broke the preaching of the gospel and rising of the churches.

The world witnessed  preachers and believers enduring such moments- in fact many of them  risked there lives when they refused to run outside the country.

They persistently preached and prayed amidst tension, intimidation and pressure-such an influence can not be forgotten.

 Within these 50 years; mighty women and men of valor have raised in this nation.

 They have planted churches, organized crusades, concerts, seminars, conferences and have moved across Africa and beyond.  These people have polished the image of this country in the eyes of the international community.

The list for sure is almost endless but I will mention a few;

Robert Kayanja , Godfrey Kamese, Joseph Serwada, Nathan Ibrahim, Zacheraus Serwada, Isaac Kiwewesi, Semoen Kayiwa, Jackson Senyonga, David Kiganda, Charles Kalori, Evans Mayambara, Samuel Kakanda, Namutebi, Tom Mugerwa, Wilson Bugembe, Michael Kyazze, Michael Mugerwa, Jamada Kikomeko, Umar Mulinde, David Bweyinda, Happy Ngabbo, Judith Babirye, Phionah Mukasa, Betty Nakibuka, Betty Nakibuka, Stephen Kawesa, Gary Skinner, Lezre, Nakafeero Zalubel Sifa- oh God the list is endless!

 The rapid and sky rocketing speed at which the Pentecostals are- has and is amazing every one.

In the early times there were a few churches; these were even constructed out of papyrus and the origin of “Biwempe” vocabulary emerged.

Today over a million are well built churches in the country. Some like Miracle Center Cathedral-Lubaga, Kansanga Miracle Center, Victory Church-Ndeeba, Jinja Miracle Center, Synagogue Church of all Nations, Christian Life Church, Watoto Churches (KPC), Power Center Entebbe, Liberty Worship Center-Lugala among others have capacity of over 2000 people.

Pentecostal has been confirmed to be the fastest growing faith in not only Uganda but also worldwide. The recent estimate is 10 million yet it’s only 50 years. How will it be after 50 years?

If 51% Ugandans are below 15 years according to United Nations Population figures; what is the actual figure for people below this age.

And if 70% Ugandans are ageing 16-33 just like it is; what’s then the actual figure for these Born agains?

Am of a view that the 10 million figures are wrong. These people must be not less than 22 million.

 This movement has engaged in provision of communal services; hospital facilititation, schools founded and built on Pentecostal faith-these include Seroma Christian High School-Mukono, White Angels-Masajja & Bulenga.

Children have been brought from streets with the help of pastors and individuals.

 These include Gary Skinner, Ssenyonga Jackson, Robert Kayanja, Wilson Bugembe, Anorld Muwonge and many others.

 Pentecostals have fought evils and advocated for morality.

The likes of Ps Ssempa Martin, Michael Kyazze and David Kiganda have speared headed campaigns against homosexuality. They have used media, demonstrations and crusades in fighting all these.

Amazingly some preachers are seen at night on streets preaching to sex workers.

The testimony of those who have forsaken drugs, witch craft, gambling, murder, fornication and many other evils can’t be finished.

Healing of HIV/AIDS, diabetes, sickle cells, mental illnesses, asthma, allergy, cancer and many other incurable sicknesses and diseases adding to miracles for sight the blind, lame, dead & deaf.

The evidence of all these is available; medical proof, video clips, witnesses, confessions amongst others.

 They have changed the face of media. At one time the media was monopolized by the state but ever since this was lifted, Pentecostals have opened and operated radios, televisions, printed newspapers, magazines & books.

These include Top T.V, Channel 44, LTV, Top Radio, Alpha Fm, Impact Fm, Dhunamis, Spirit Fm, Kingdom Radio, Power Fm, ABC, Fm J, Community Radio, Bob Fm, Inspired Magazine, The Rock, Christian Magazine and so many others. These have run developmental programs, life changing entertainment, promoted business, employed Ugandans, paid taxes and other bills.

 The Pentecostal movement has always bee the lead in advising the state on so many issues; Bills in Parliament, National Security & Stability.

Since the creation of the Ministry of Ethics& Integrity-I do not know why only Born Agains have headed it.

These are Hon Tim Lwanga, Hon Dr Miria Matembe & Hon Dr James Nsababuturo.

 This movement has also promoted national unity, love and peace through music industry. Individuals and groups in this industry have blessed every one on International level; Ps Okudi, Seku Martin, Kirwana Mc Africa, Florence Lukundo, God’s my, Africa Children’s Choir and others.

 Finally, in spite of all this positive influence & impact, this movement has been inflicted with several challenges and weaknesses;

 The rising of false preachers with wrong doctrines; these run adverts on radio, television and press. I will however leave this for the public to judge.

Allegations are; witchcraft, demonic worship, sodomy, division, enmity, hatred and wrangle amongst pastors and believers. Others are Extortion, bribery &theft

Cases of rape, defilement, adultery, homosexuality, fornication, lesbianism & prostitution

This must be solved.

But to me, we should not focus on these elements, let’s look for remedies; appreciate what the Pentecostal movement has done so far and see how we can rebuild-reclaim the dream of our nation.