Equity Bank Uganda has promised to continue closely working with the Church of Uganda for mutual benefits.
Speaking at the dinner organized by the bank at Namirembe Guest House on Friday, Anthony Kituuka, the Equity Bank Uganda Executive Director expressed willingness by the bank to continue working with the church at all levels.
“We have partnered with over 3,500 churches in the East and Central Africa; here (Uganda) together with the Church of Uganda, we are funding the construction of Church House,” Kituuka said.
He added that in Kenya and Tanzania, Equity Bank has provided mortgages to priests.
In a joint statement issued by the bank and the Church of Uganda, the two parties are proposing church members to start paying their tithes, offerings and donations for the project (Church House) using Equity Bank channels mainly ATMs, branches and mobile money among others.
Diocese of Namirembe Bishop Rt Rev Kityo Luwalira commended their strong relationship with the bank, calling upon other bishops and Christians to embrace Equity bank products. Last week, the bank gave the Church of Uganda Shs35m towards the preparations for this year’s Martyrs Day Celebrations.
The relationship between Equity bank and the Church of Uganda started in 2011 when Equity bank offered a mortgage-amounting to 70% of total costs for the construction of Church House. The Church of Uganda is meant to contribute 30% of the construction costs. The initial cost of the project was US$16.3 million. Church House building that is located along Kampala road started in January 2011 with an initial timeline of 18 to 24 months, but has since delayed due to unexpected interruptions. However, Equity bank boss has assured all stakeholders that the building will be complete before end of this year.
