David Calvin Echodu, a rising political figure in Eastern Uganda and contender for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Central Executive Committee (CEC) Vice Chairperson for the Eastern region, is set to headline a high-profile fundraising drive for the UGX 3.5 billion Soroti Pentecostal Assemblies of God (PAG) Cathedral construction. The landmark event, slated for July 7, 2025, at Soroti Sports Ground, marks a significant milestone in the church’s efforts to build a modern, state-of-the-art cathedral capable of serving its fast-growing congregation.
The cathedral fundraising, organized under the theme “Building for God, Growing the Church,” aims to mobilize resources from believers, well-wishers, and the business and political community. According to Bishop Mathew Omagor of PAG Teso Central Pastorate, the idea for the cathedral followed a comprehensive needs assessment which revealed the urgent need for a larger, more functional worship facility. “We discovered that every Sunday, over 3,000 believers attend our three services, yet our current church can only accommodate about 750 people per sitting,” Bishop Omagor said. “We need a permanent structure to host the growing numbers and allow for spiritual, social, and community development.”
The new cathedral is envisioned to serve more than 3,000 worshippers and provide a permanent home for the faithful, whose numbers have overwhelmed the current church structure. Engineer Simon Okello, the project manager, revealed that the project has already consumed UGX 260 million, primarily for substructure and slab completion. However, at least UGX 300 million is still needed to complete the substructure phase alone. The building is classified as a Class A structure and is projected to be completed over a period of three years.
The event’s Chief Guest, David Calvin Echodu, is expected to galvanize support, not just for the church, but also for his political ambitions. “Mr. Echodu’s decision to lead this fundraiser underscores his commitment to faith, community development, and his understanding of the spiritual needs of the people of Teso,” said Rev. Ekou Mackay, a senior pastor at Soroti PAG. The event’s program includes a charity run starting at 9:00 a.m., covering the route from Soroti Sports Ground to Moru-Apesur, Agip, and back to the Sports Ground. Prayers led by Bishop Omagor will follow, culminating in the official launch of the fundraising.
The fundraiser has drawn attention from key stakeholders in the community, including media outlets. Samuel Ejoku, a representative of Etop Radio, confirmed that the station has committed airtime worth over UGX 10 million to promote the initiative. “The church is a pillar in our community, and we believe supporting its development is our duty as a community-based radio,” Ejoku said. The church has also rolled out a merchandise campaign to raise funds, selling kits valued at UGX 50,000, each containing a branded vest, cap, and water bottle.
As July 7 approaches, excitement is mounting within the church and community. The event is expected to attract believers from across the Teso sub-region, political leaders, businesspeople, and other stakeholders in the faith community. For David Calvin Echodu, the event offers more than just a platform to address his political ambitions—it’s a chance to align himself with a cause that transcends politics and speaks to the soul of the Teso community. “This is more than a fundraiser. It’s a divine calling to unite, build, and grow together,” said Rev. Ekou. “With unity, faith, and generous hearts, we will raise the cathedral—and with it, raise the spiritual and social standards of our people.”