PRETORIA, South Africa – The Director of One Challenge (OC ) Africa, Reverend Christopher Harrison, has called on government and the Church to work as “indispensable partners” if Africa is to achieve lasting transformation in both body and spirit.
Speaking on Sunday evening during dinner prayers hosted by Uganda’s High Commissioner to South Africa, H.E. Ambassador Paul Amoru, at the official residence in Pretoria, Rev. Harrison said the continent’s development and moral renewal will only be realised when political leaders and faith leaders walk together with a shared vision.
The gathering brought together church and community leaders from Uganda, Malawi and South Africa in what was described as a rare demonstration of cross-border unity and fellowship under God.
Reverend Harrison, who led the visiting delegation, paid glowing tribute to Ambassador Amoru’s leadership, describing the High Commission as a living model of the partnership Africa urgently needs.
“If Africa is to develop, we must build partnerships where government provides structure and the Church provides values, discipleship and hope,” Harrison declared. “What we are seeing here at the Uganda High Commission is a model of that unity.
He further praised the hospitality, patriotism and team spirit displayed at the Mission, noting that it reflects a deeper commitment to serve nations beyond borders—an echo of the biblical mandate in Matthew 28:19-20 to “go and make disciples of all nations.”
Responding with warmth and conviction, Ambassador Paul Amoru thanked the delegation for their visit and reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to a diplomacy that openly honours God.
He reminded the gathering that a nation which places God first enjoys divine favour and protection.
Uganda’s mission abroad is not only to serve our people, but to build bridges of faith, unity and development across Africa,” the High Commissioner said.
His words resonated deeply with the biblical truth of Psalm 33:12: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.
Speaking on behalf of the Ugandan contingent, Bishop Christopher Odwee of Team of God Worship International Ministries, expressed profound gratitude for the High Commissioner’s evident love for Uganda, for Africa and for Christ.
Uganda is among the African countries that still love and honour God. That is why we continue to experience God’s divine protection over our land and people,” Bishop Odwee affirmed, pointing to the tangible fruit of national faithfulness.
Apostle Stephine Opio Ongora, also a senior leader with Team of God Worship International Ministries, who had just concluded a ten-day leadership retreat in Johannesburg, underscored the transformative power of discipleship.
Discipleship is the best way to grow the Church spiritually and physically,” he said.
“When leaders are discipled, families are strong, communities are transformed, and nations are blessed. We appreciate OC Africa and the Uganda High Commission for involving God in all they do.” Opio explained.
