In a significant development for the Seventh-day Adventist Church, a Ugandan cleric has been chosen to steer its affairs across a vast swathe of East and Central Africa. Pastor Dr Moses Maka Ndimukika will now head the East and Central Africa Division (ECD), a region that spans 11 countries and represents one of the fastest-growing branches of the global church.
A Historic Vote
The appointment was confirmed by the General Conference, the highest governing body of the Adventist Church worldwide, which voted in favour of Dr Maka on November 2, 2026. He steps into the role as the successor to Pastor Dr Blassious Ruguri, who is set to retire on December 31, 2026, after 16 years of dedicated service to the division.
Dr Maka will not work alone. He will be deputised by Dr Tom Ogal, a Kenyan who previously served as Under Secretary, and who now takes up the position of Secretary for the division.
A Region of Growth and Promise
The ECD is described as the youngest, largest and fastest-expanding division within the Adventist Church. Its territory covers Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia and Djibouti. Leading such a diverse and dynamic region is no small task, and the selection of Dr Maka signals confidence in his ability to guide the church through its next chapter.
The handover comes at a time when the division is experiencing notable momentum, with growing congregations and increasing influence across the region. Dr Maka’s leadership will be closely watched as he seeks to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor.
A Smooth Transition
The transition is expected to be orderly, with Dr Ruguri’s retirement marking the end of an era that saw sustained growth and stability. Church observers note that the incoming leadership team, with Dr Maka at the helm and Dr Ogal as his deputy, brings a blend of experience and fresh energy to the division.
For Ugandans, the appointment is a moment of pride, placing a national figure at the centre of a major religious institution with reach far beyond the country’s borders. The Adventist Church in Uganda has long been active in education, health and community development, and Dr Maka’s elevation is likely to strengthen those ties.
As the division prepares for the leadership change, attention will turn to how the new team addresses the opportunities and challenges facing the church across the 11 nations. With a growing membership and a wide geographic footprint, the ECD remains a key player in the denomination’s global mission.
