The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is known over the years for working with governments and national leaders on issues of common interest. By building friendship with Speaker Kadaga and other leaders, the Church is able to bring understanding and build coalitions that benefit Church programs around the world.
In June, the Speaker of the Uganda National Assembly, Madam Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, was hosted at Church Headquarters in Salt Lake City, U.S.A. Madam Kadaga is the Speaker of the Ugandan Parliament since May 2011. The Uganda's Speaker is the first woman to hold this position in the history of this Parliament. She was elected Deputy Speaker in 2001, and served in that post until she was elected Speaker. She has a law degree from Makerere University in Kampala and practiced law prior to her government appointments.
On her visit, the Speaker and her entourage were exposed to the basic beliefs and structure of the Church as well as programs of the Church in areas of education, welfare, humanitarian and family initiatives. Many of these programs have been implemented in Uganda benefiting thousands of both Church members and non-members.
The highlight of this trip was a meeting held between the Speaker and Elder David A. Bednar, one of the Twelve Apostle’s of the Church, who reaffirmed the Church’s continued commitment to bless lives in Uganda.