Where Do Pastors Take Offerings? New Government Policy Requires Religious Leaders to Account for Offertory Funds

In a significant move towards fostering transparency and accountability within religious institutions, the Ugandan government is developing a policy that will mandate churches and mosques to provide an account of offertory and contributions made by their followers.

The Directorate for Ethics and Integrity (DEI) within the Office of the President initiated the development of the National Policy for Religious and Faith Organizations (RFOs) in April 2016. This policy, currently undergoing validation, aims to promote collaboration between religious organizations and the government, fostering participation in social service delivery, economic development, and accountability.

Alex B. Okello, the Permanent Secretary at the Directorate for Ethics and Integrity, clarified that the policy emphasizes transparency in handling public resources within prayer centers. He emphasized that the policy does not entail taxing religious institutions but rather ensuring that resources provided by believers are utilized appropriately for developmental purposes.

Rev Canon Aaron Mwesigye, Director for Ethics and Religious Affairs at DEI, emphasized that the ongoing validation process seeks to ensure religious leaders’ ownership of the policy before its approval by the cabinet. Mwesigye highlighted that the policy will introduce mechanisms for religious institutions to proactively identify and address corrupt practices.

Religious leaders have expressed support for the policy, recognizing its potential to combat corruption within their ranks and contribute to national development. Bishop Sanctus Lino Wanok of Lira Catholic Diocese emphasized the importance of adhering to policy guidelines to combat corruption effectively.

Dr. Morris Chris Ongom, a pastor and chairperson of the National Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Lira, commended the policy for encapsulating the values of the church and enhancing the capacity of religious leaders to drive positive change.

Similarly, Rev Canon Richard Opio Atoo of All Saints Cathedral Boroboro highlighted the biblical precedent for accountability and transparency, citing the story of Cain and Abel as an example.

Sheikh Ibrahim Okello, Deputy District Khadi of Lango Muslim District, expressed confidence in the policy’s framework to address corruption effectively within religious structures.

The impending policy signals a concerted effort by the Ugandan government to promote integrity and accountability across all sectors, including religious institutions, in the pursuit of national development and social cohesion.