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Anglican Diocese of Nebbi

Quick facts Diocese of Nebbi, Location ...
Diocese of Nebbi
Location
CountryUganda
TerritoryNebbi District, Zombo District, Pakwach District
Ecclesiastical provinceChurch of Uganda
Archdeaconries4
Statistics
Parishes31
Churches360
Information
Established24 October 1993
CathedralSt. Stephen’s Cathedral, Goli
Current leadership
BishopRt. Rev. Pons Ozelle
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The Anglican Diocese of Nebbi is a diocese of the Church of Uganda, part of the worldwide Anglican Communion. Established in 1993, it serves the districts of Nebbi, Zombo, and Pakwach in northwestern Uganda. The diocese is headquartered at St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Goli, a town near the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.[1]

History

The Diocese of Nebbi was created on 24 October 1993, carved out of the Diocese of Madi and West Nile to better serve the growing Anglican population in the region.[2] The founding of the diocese marked a significant step in decentralising church administration and fostering local leadership in the West Nile sub-region. The first bishop, Henry Luke Orombi, was consecrated at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Goli, which became the diocesan seat.[3][4]

Since its inception, the diocese has played a pivotal role in evangelism, church planting, and community development, especially in the aftermath of regional conflicts and displacement. The diocese has grown steadily, expanding its network of parishes, churches, and institutions.[2]

Bishops and Leadership

Rt. Rev. Henry Luke Orombi (1993–2004)

Henry Luke Orombi, born in 1949 in Pakwach, was the inaugural bishop of Nebbi.[3] Educated at Bishop Tucker Theological College and St. John's College, Nottingham, he was ordained in 1978. Orombi led the diocese through a decade of rapid expansion, emphasising evangelism, clergy training, and social outreach. In 2004, he was elected Archbishop of Uganda, serving until 2012.[4]

Rt. Rev. Alphonse Ulunya Wathokudi (2004–2021)

Alphonse Ulunya Wathokudi succeeded Orombi in 2004. His tenure was marked by diocesan growth, increased community engagement, and the strengthening of church institutions. He was known for his pastoral care and commitment to education and health initiatives. Bishop Wathokudi died in January 2021.[5][6]

Rt. Rev. Pons Ozelle (2022–present)

Pons Ozelle, born in 1969, was elected the third bishop of Nebbi in October 2021 and consecrated in January 2022.[7][8] He holds degrees from Uganda Christian University and Trinity Theological College, Singapore. Bishop Ozelle’s leadership focuses on restoration, evangelism, education, youth and women’s ministries, and cross-border mission work.[9]

Ecclesiastical Structure

The Diocese of Nebbi is organized into four archdeaconries:

  • Jonam
  • Padyere
  • Goli Central
  • Okoro

As of 2024, the diocese comprises 31 parishes and oversees a network of approximately 360 churches. The diocese serves the predominantly Alur-speaking population of Nebbi, Zombo, and Pakwach districts.[10]

Institutions and Community Impact

Education

The diocese operates and supports several primary and secondary schools, contributing to educational access and quality in the region. These schools are integral to the diocese’s mission of holistic community service.[2]

Health Outreach

The diocese is involved in health outreach, supporting local health facilities and providing health education. According to UNICEF and the Uganda Ministry of Health, Nebbi District has over 20 health facilities, many of which collaborate with faith-based organizations, including the Anglican Diocese.[11][12]

Goli Women Vocational Training Centre

Located in Goli, this center provides vocational education and skills training for women, focusing on economic empowerment and self-sufficiency. It is recognized as a major Business Technical Vocational Education Training (BTVET) institution in the district.[13] The center hosts international outreach programs, such as "Threads of Blessing," and cross-border training with partners from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.[14]

Cross-Border Mission Work

The diocese is actively engaged in cross-border mission work with Anglican and ecumenical partners in the DRC. This includes joint training programs, peacebuilding initiatives, and shared worship events, promoting reconciliation and regional cooperation.[15]

Notable Landmarks

St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Goli

St. Stephen’s Cathedral is the mother church and spiritual center of the diocese. Located in Goli town near the DRC border, it hosts major diocesan events, including the consecration of bishops, annual synods, and ecumenical gatherings.[2]

See also

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