By Patriot Corps
On August 25, 2024, the Church of Uganda consecrated and enthroned Rev. Can. Michael Chorey as the 5th Bishop of Karamoja Diocese at St. Philip’s Cathedral in Moroto District. He succeeds Rt. Rev. Joseph Abura, who served as Bishop since May 27, 2007, and was also the Dean of the Province of the Church of Uganda.
At the ceremony, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kazimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, encouraged the people of Karamoja to support their new bishop and embrace cultural and mindset transformation.
He highlighted Karamoja’s potential to contribute significantly to Uganda’s food supply and emphasized the church’s commitment to the region’s development.
President Yoweri Museveni, represented by Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, praised Bishop Emeritus Joseph Abura for his efforts in mobilizing Christians to support government initiatives aimed at bringing peace, stability, and development to Karamoja. Museveni noted the region’s progress from grappling with poor infrastructure and insecurity to becoming a potential mining and industrial hub due to the government’s focus on critical infrastructure development.
Museveni reflected on the NRM government’s historical role in transforming Uganda and emphasized the need for socio-economic transformation in Karamoja. He urged the region to follow the NRM’s advice on wealth creation and economic specialization, pointing out that transitioning from subsistence to a modern economy is crucial for improving living standards.
Rev. Michael Chorey, who has served as the Archdeacon of Pokot since April 1, 2012, and Parish Priest of Christ Church Amudat, was born on April 10, 1970, in Dingdinga village, Amudat District. He accepted Christ as his savior on May 12, 1986, and has been a dedicated servant, planting 24 churches under Pokot Archdeaconry with his wife, Rev. Canon Jane Chorey. He holds a Master of Arts in Theology and Development and a Bachelor of Divinity from Uganda Christian University and is nearing completion of his Doctor of Philosophy in Theology and Development.
Rev. Chorey’s extensive training includes monitoring and evaluation for HIV/AIDS, advocacy, peace-building, and leadership training at the Anglican Leadership Institute in South Carolina, USA. As he begins his tenure, he is expected to continue the work of his predecessor in advancing the socio-economic development of Karamoja while receiving government support for his efforts.