UCU Breaks Ground for New Chapel, Calls for National Support
Uganda Christian University (UCU) has officially launched construction for its new Thorny Croft Chapel, a state-of-the-art worship facility set to accommodate over 1,000 worshippers per service at the university’s main campus in Mukono.
The groundbreaking ceremony was led by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, His Grace the Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, together with UCU Vice Chancellor, Canon Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi.
Speaking during the event, Prof. Mushengyezi reaffirmed the university’s financial commitment to the project, announcing a contribution of UGX 600 million to kickstart construction.
“On our part as a University, we presented a request to the University Council to commit UGX 600 million to start the project, and the Council approved it,” he said.
Archbishop Kaziimba, addressing attendees and the broader Christian community, urged Ugandans and well-wishers to contribute generously to ensure the chapel’s completion.
“This chapel will not only serve UCU students and staff but will also stand as a beacon of faith for generations to come. We call upon Ugandans to join hands in supporting this noble cause,” he appealed.
The new chapel, according to architectural plans, will include a main sanctuary, a children’s chapel, a youth chapel, a council boardroom, and other multipurpose spaces designed to enhance worship, fellowship, and community engagement.
UCU Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, Mr. David Mugawe, who also chairs the Chapel Development Council, disclosed that construction will officially begin on October 1, once the site has been handed over to the contractor.
“The first phase of this magnificent chapel is projected to cost UGX 3.5 billion, and we are optimistic that, with collective support, the project will steadily progress,” Mugawe noted.
The Thorny Croft Chapel is set to become a landmark for UCU, providing a modern, inclusive space for spiritual growth and community gatherings, while strengthening the university’s commitment to faith-based education and service.
