TANZANIA: ‘Homosexuality has no place in Tanzania’ Bishops warn
Archbishop Gervas Nyaisonga of Mbeya Archdiocese
Pascal Mwanache
In the celebration of Easter for this year 2023, some Catholic Bishops in Tanzania have given Easter greetings to the faithful while condemning the actions of homosexuality and urged Tanzanians to strongly condemn such actions.
Speaking at different occasions in their dioceses, the bishops, despite condemning the flourishing of such actions which are against the teachings of the Catholic Church and the traditions and customs in Tanzania and in Africa in general have made it clear that the Church will not turn a blind eye to the issue.
The Archbishop of Mbeya Archdiocese who is also the President of Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC) Most. Rev Gervas Nyaisonga has urged Tanzanians to strongly oppose same-sex relationships saying that the exaggeration of such actions is fueled by some people who do not have the fear of God and humanity.
“My fellow Tanzanians, our society has been hit by new waves of homosexuality. Human dignity is rapidly disappearing due to a few who are thinking of changing the plan set by God for marriage between husband and wife. For all those who want to justify same-sex marriage as a human right, for whatever reason, they must know that this is not God’s plan in creation,” he underscored adding, “It is the philosophy of some people who are deceiving people; it is a propaganda that continues to make people unable to reproduce. So, let’s stand firm as a Church to defend everything that concerns human dignity. By doing so, we will truly be resurrected with Christ”.
On his part, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Morogoro Rt. Rev. Lazarus Msimbe has urged the faithful to condemn homosexuality and all other acts that go against the teachings of Church in line with the good values of the Nation.
He also said that acts of child abuse are completely against the teachings and morals of Catholic Church, adding that the resurrection of Christ should remind all believers to avoid evil acts that humiliate the dignity of man who was created in the image and likeness of God.
On his part, the Bishop of Kayanga Rt. Rev. Almachius Rweyongeza has made a call to the faithful in the diocese to imitate the example of Jesus and be faithful by giving up actions that offend God including abortion and engaging in same-sex relationships.
In addition, he has asked parents to raise their children in morals and to teach them housework as well as to condemn the evil acts of same-sex relationships and to offer their prayers in front of the cross and ask God to repent from the evils that are flourishing.
“Unrighteous acts separate man from God, so let’s use Easter celebrations to reflect on our actions. Let me ask: is same-sex marriage really God’s order? Even animals have not reached that point. As a matter of fact, homosexuality is satanism,” said Bishop Rweyongeza.
And the Archbishop of Dodoma Most. Rev. Beatus Kinyaiya has warned and reprimanded some non-governmental organizations that are promoting acts of homosexuality and prostitution in the country.
“There are some organizations in Europe and the United States that pour a lot of money into Africa to start non-governmental organizations, and their goal is to make young people embrace homosexuality. Even in Dodoma, I have heard that there is a group. These kinds of groups have spread all over Tanzania. They are using all their tricks and all their influence and using famous people to insist that homosexuality should be accepted” he said.
Due to the rapid spread of such acts, Bishop Kinyaiya has asked Christians and all people of good will not to accept such acts which he too calls satanic. In continuing the struggle against same-sex marriages, he has congratulated the President of Uganda Yoweri Museveni for firmly and strongly refusing to allow homosexuality in the country.
“I really congratulate the President of Uganda, he has fully managed it and said no. I really congratulate our President Mama Samia who says that other people’s behavior should not be implanted in us. Therefore, the Government of Tanzania is also doing well,” said Bishop Kinyaiya.
On his side the Bishop of Tunduru-Masasi Catholic Diocese Rt. Rev. Filbert Mhasi has urged Tanzanians to stick together as one community in educating children and young people, criticizing the behavior of some parents and guardians for not being responsible in the upbringing of children, especially in monitoring them.
“Parents and guardians must be the first to fulfill your duty to raise children and follow them step by step. Even if they go to school, when they come back, sit and talk to them. It is your job as a parent and guardian. Our society right now experiences a lot of misconducts, as a parent you just leave it to the society, you just leave it to the internet to teach your child, you will end up crying” he said.
