Former Comedian Sammy Okanya Embraces Pastoral Calling

Former Da Mighty Family comedian Sammy Okanya has stirred widespread discussion after publicly declaring that he has turned away from comedy and embraced a new life in ministry.

Speaking during a recent television interview, Okanya revealed that his decision to become born again and eventually a pastor followed what he described as a deeply personal spiritual encounter while he was in jail.

“God visited me directly,” he said. “Whereas I was in a physical jail, God took me to a place where he wanted to speak to me. He had wanted to talk to me before, but sometimes he found me drunk, maybe carrying a random girl from the bar.”

Okanya reflected candidly on his past lifestyle, admitting that he struggled with excessive drinking and unhealthy relationships before his transformation. According to him, prison became a turning point rather than merely a punishment.

He likened his experience to biblical stories of redemption, saying the difficult season forced him into self-reflection and ultimately reshaped his priorities.

The former comedian stressed that he has since stepped away from entertainment and is now fully focused on ministry.

“I will not convince anyone because I’m not looking at human beings. I’m focused on God, and I want Him to use me in the best way He can. I’m a living testimony,” he explained.

Okanya also introduced his new spiritual platform, identifying himself as the lead pastor of Emmaus Ministry International, a ministry he says is grounded in unity and collective growth. The church operates under the tagline: “Coming together is the beginning and working together is progress.”

His announcement has triggered mixed reactions online, with some social media users expressing skepticism while others applauded his decision and shared messages of support.

Despite the criticism, Okanya remains firm in his stance, insisting that he feels no pressure to justify his transformation.

“I don’t have to prove to anyone that I’m now a pastor and a changed man,” he stated.

The development adds Okanya to a growing list of Ugandan entertainers who have transitioned from show business into religious ministry a shift that often sparks both curiosity and debate among fans.