By Hannington Sebuliba
ENTEBBE, June 7, 2026 –
Rev. Canon Nelson Kaweesa has called upon leaders of Entebbe Archdeaconry to embrace the transformational leadership model exemplified by the biblical prophet Nehemiah.
Speaking during the induction and swearing-in service of the newly elected Archdeaconry Council for the 2026–2030 term, led by Eng. Herbert Ngobi, Rev. Canon Kaweesa urged the leaders to anchor their leadership in prayer, vision, integrity, and servant leadership.
The service was held at St. Mark’s Church of Uganda, Entebbe Namate, the Archdeaconry headquarters, during the 11:00 a.m. service. It was led by the Assistant Archdeacon, Rev. Canon Rocky Ssendegeya, Vicar of St. John’s Parish Entebbe, assisted by Rev. Ssekiziyivu and Rev. Edison Wilson Kibalama.
The service began with the swearing-in and commissioning of the newly elected Archdeaconry Council leaders for the 2026–2030 term of office.
In his sermon, the retired Namirembe Diocesan Secretary preached on the theme, “The Qualities of a Transformational Leader,” drawing lessons from the Book of Nehemiah, particularly Chapter One.
He noted that Scripture presents many exemplary leaders, but Nehemiah stands out as a model of prayerful and transformative leadership.
“Nehemiah gives us a blueprint for prayer and leadership,” he said.
Rev. Canon Kaweesa explained that while in exile, Nehemiah served in a position of responsibility in the king’s palace. When he received news from his brother that Jerusalem lay in ruins and its walls had been destroyed, he was deeply moved. He fasted and prayed, seeking God’s wisdom and courage before approaching the king for permission to return and rebuild Jerusalem.
He encouraged the newly inducted leaders to read the entire Book of Nehemiah, describing it as a valuable guide for effective leadership and service.
According to Rev. Canon Kaweesa, Nehemiah’s success was rooted in prayer, vision, and perseverance. After receiving the king’s approval, Nehemiah mobilized people to help rebuild the city walls. Despite facing opposition and ridicule from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem the Arab, he remained focused on the mission until the work was completed and dedicated to God.
He urged leaders to remain prayerful and continually seek God’s guidance.
“Without God’s guidance, leaders will not be able to navigate the challenges before them,” he said.
He added that many leaders fail because they neglect the prayerful and strategic leadership approach demonstrated by Nehemiah.
Servant Leadership
Rev. Canon Kaweesa further encouraged the council members to practice servant leadership by actively participating in the work they expect others to do.
He reminded them that leadership comes with challenges and that they should face difficulties with courage and determination, just as Nehemiah and his team worked with tools in one hand and weapons in the other while rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls.
He advised leaders not to be quick to resign when confronted with obstacles but instead to remain committed, resilient, and focused despite criticism and opposition.
He emphasized that effective leaders must have a clear vision of where they want their departments, ministries, or institutions to be.
The preacher described Nehemiah as a trustworthy, transparent, and patriotic leader whose commitment to the welfare of his people inspired transformation.
Drawing from his personal experiences while using public transport, Rev. Canon Kaweesa noted that he often hears Christians criticizing their church leaders. He urged believers to develop a genuine love for the Church and support those who serve in leadership.
He reminded the congregation that church leadership is largely voluntary and that leaders should strive to leave behind visible and constructive transformation by the end of their tenure.
He also cautioned newly elected leaders against criticizing their predecessors.
“Never despise those who served before you. We build on the foundation laid by previous leaders,” he said.
The service concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation to the outgoing Archdeaconry Executive in recognition of their dedicated service.
Following the service, Rev. Canon Nelson Kaweesa conducted an orientation session for the newly elected leaders, guiding them on their roles, responsibilities, and the expectations of effective Christian leadership as they begin their term of office.
The day’s activities ended with a renewed call for the newly commissioned leaders to lead prayerfully, faithfully, and with a spirit of servant leadership as they undertake their responsibilities in the Archdeaconry over the next four years.
