The Moderator of the United Evangelical Mission (UEM) and Bishop of the Northwestern Diocese, the Rt Rev. Dr. Abednego Keshomshahara, has called on churches and communities to fight against all forms of discrimination, on the basis of gender, religious, cultural, political, and racial discrimination.

He made that wake up call during the opening worship service of the UEM General Assembly which was held on Sunday, September 14, at Mbezi Beach Lutheran Parish, in the Eastern and Coastal Diocese, Dar es Salaam.

The Moderator said the theme of this year’s assembly focuses on condemning all forms of discrimination so as to promote unity, harmony, and development in  church and society. 

He commended the Government of Tanzania for facilitating the participation of international delegates and  UEM co-workers without challenges related to visas and work permits.

He also registered a vote of thanks to President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan for demonstrating strong leadership and promoting gender equality by having the placement of women on top leadership positions.

Bishop Keshomshahara continued to expressed gratitude to African member churches for contributing over 80,000 Euros (approximately 230 million Tanzanian Shillings) to support the preparations for the General Assembly. 

In addition, he announced plans to establish the UEM Africa Regional Office in Kigamboni, Dar es Salaam, and urged churches and delegates to support the construction project.

The guest of honour was Honourable Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Phillip Mpango who thanked UEM work and promised a continued cooperation between the governent and churches given the role of churches in social services.

The UEM General Assembly is held every three years and convenes representative delegates from Africa, Asia, and Europe.