Watoto Church, one of Uganda’s most structured Pentecostal institutions yesterday (10th August 2025) took a bold decision to force the resignation of one of the leaders. During the Heart of Compassion service, the Team Leader of Watoto Church, Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo announced to the public that there was some unfortunate family news.
The Congregation were asked to keep away their phones as the announcement followed. It was then announced that Pastor Zane Mugabi, one of the Youth Pastors was being relieved of his duties. The reason cited was sexual misconduct.
According to some sources at the church, “it’s alleged that in the aftermath of his wife’s death, Pastor Zane had been sexually involved with some of the church members which Watoto frowns upon especially for its leadership team.”
Pastor Zane Mugabi had married Pastor Eva Abwola (RIP) in August 2021. In March 2024, Eva Abwola unfortunately passed away due to complications related to a divided/septate uterus. Pastor Zane was then widowed and has been a grieving husband and father since then.
The news of his resignation brought mixed feelings amongst the congregation and in the general public. Some such as Hope Anguyo termed it as “the army that kills its wounded soldiers most is the church army.” Some others agreed that Watoto is right to maintain discipline among its leadership. Another member commented; “there had been a growing problem of single motherhood in Watoto and the Church wants to cut this problem at its root. This is one of the ways of preventing such issues from arising. The issue with Pastor is not choosing to officially marry these new girls.”
Watoto Church has asked its members to pray for Zane Mugabi as he goes through his period of repentance, contemplation and reflection. Watoto Church says it’s a season of compassion.
