DAR ES SALAAM: THE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Dr Doto Biteko, has commended the Catholic Church for its significant contributions to the welfare of society.
He made the remarks over the weekend in Dar es Salaam while representing President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the fundraising event for the construction of a new church for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rulenge–Ngara in Kagera Region.
“The Catholic Church has played a vital role in the social service sector and the government continues to recognise and appreciate its contributions to the development of various sectors in the country,” Dr Biteko said.
During the event, a total of 2.1bn/- was raised, with President Samia contributing 50m/-. The fundraising is part of an ongoing effort to raise 7.7bn/- needed for the construction.
Dr Biteko said that the contribution would foster national unity. “President Samia has instructed me to assist the bishop with this project to ensure its success,” he added.
He also noted the personal and spiritual benefits of dedicating oneself to God’s work, such as the building of a church.
“I am grateful to the president for entrusting me with this important mission and for being part of this blessing,” Dr Biteko said.
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Dr Biteko urged Tanzanians to contribute to achieving good outcomes, noting that such contributions would be spiritually rewarding.
“When you contribute towards the construction of a church, your efforts are not in vain. They bring success,” he said.
He also praised Bishop Severine Niwemugizi of the Rulenge–Ngara Diocese for thinking big about the church’s construction, despite the Diocese’s remote location.
Dr Biteko urged the faithful to support the bishop’s vision so that the church could thrive.
Earlier, Bishop Niwemugizi said that the new church would accommodate at least 2,100 worshippers at once.
He expressed gratitude for the partnership between the church and the government, urging Tanzanians to support all efforts made by the church, while also thanking President Samia for her ongoing support.
Bishop Niwemugizi also said that the current church building, constructed in 1969, is in need of repair and expansion.
He expressed the desire to build a new cathedral that would serve as a place of worship and also attract visitors.
