Enock Ndyamuhaki
KABALE – The Bishop of the Diocese of Kigezi, Rt. Rev. Gaddie Akanjuna has raised alarm over what he described as a growing addiction to mobile phones among Christians, warning that the trend is slowly eroding family values, productivity, and the moral upbringing of children.
The bishop made the remarks while presiding over the confirmation of 19 Christians at St Mark Nyakijumba Church of Uganda in the Central Division of Kabale Municipality on Thursday, 19th February.
Bishop Akanjuna urged believers to rethink how they spend their time, noting that many people are increasingly getting glued to their phone screens at the expense of meaningful work and healthy social interaction in their homes.
“Mobile phones were meant to support our lives, not control them. When most of our time is consumed by screens, we lose opportunities to grow spiritually, economically, and socially,” the bishop told Christians.
Bishop Akanjuna expressed particular concern about the impact of excessive phone use by children, saying that many young people are now being “raised by mobile phones instead of being raised by parents and guardians.”
He warned that the growing dependency on gadgets threatens the moral and social development of the next generation.
“When children spend their time watching and scrolling instead of learning discipline, responsibility, and respect from their families, their future is put at risk,” he said, calling on parents to take back their role as primary mentors and guides.
Call for economic resilience.
Beyond moral guidance, Bishop Akanjuna challenged Christians to become more economically resilient. He encouraged believers, especially those employed in government and formal sectors, to look beyond a single salary and invest in small-scale income-generating projects.
He cited ventures such as poultry and livestock rearing as practical ways through which families can supplement their earnings.
“Side incomes can help households meet daily needs, improve welfare, and reduce dependence on one source of income,” he explained. “This is part of responsible stewardship.”
During the service, more than 19 Christians were confirmed into the Church of Uganda Anglican faith.
Bishop Akanjuna reminded Christians that faith should shape not only worship but also daily habits, including how technology is used and how families plan for their future.
As the congregation dispersed, his message lingered: use technology wisely, invest in family and community, and work toward economic stability. In an age dominated by screens, the bishop’s words served as a reminder that true growth still begins with human connection and purposeful living within the wider mission of the Church of Uganda.