Share this article

Following this year’s successful Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations led by the Northern Uganda Cluster, comprising six dioceses, Uganda Christian University (UCU) has been chosen to spearhead the 2026 Anglican commemoration.

The announcement was made by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, who highlighted his personal ties to the university, where he also serves as Chancellor.

“Uganda Christian University, where I serve as Chancellor, will host the 2026 celebrations. We promise to deliver one of the most memorable commemorations yet,” Archbishop Kaziimba declared during the June 3, 2025 celebrations held at the Anglican Martyrs Shrine in Namugongo, Wakiso District.

Before making the announcement, the Archbishop commended the Northern Uganda Cluster—consisting of the dioceses of Northern Uganda, Kitgum, Lango, West Lango, Madi and West Nile, and Nebbi—for their leadership and spiritual dedication. He applauded their efforts in securing Church land through the construction of a perimeter wall around the Namugongo Anglican Shrine.

“Church land has long been targeted by land grabbers. The newly constructed wall symbolizes stewardship and our collective responsibility to protect our heritage,” he said.

Celebrating 140 Years of God’s Faithfulness

Archbishop Kaziimba described this year’s celebration as deeply spiritual, noting that it marked 140 years of God’s faithfulness, mercy, and love.

“This is not just a ritual—it’s a powerful reminder of the martyrs’ sacrifice, unwavering faith, and God’s enduring love,” he added.

Presidential Attendance

President Yoweri Museveni, accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Janet Museveni, was received at the Uganda Martyrs Museum in Nakiyanja by Archbishop Kaziimba, Bishop Prof. Alfred Olwa (Lango Diocese), Bishop Emeritus Jackson Matovu, and Minister of Health Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng.

Cultural and Spiritual Performances

The event featured vibrant cultural expressions. Canon Ken Odur, Bishop Prof. Alfred Olwa, Rev. James Luwum, and Rev. Prisca of Mulago Hospital Chaplaincy were seen dancing to a traditional Gwani song in celebration.

Keynote Sermon by Archbishop Emeritus Orombi

The day’s sermon was delivered by Rt. Rev. Dr. Henry Luke Orombi, former Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, who urged believers to view Martyrs Day as more than tradition.

“The martyrs didn’t die so we could just sing hymns and go home. Their blood is a call to courageous faith, national unity, and social transformation,” Orombi said.

He emphasized that the strength of the early martyrs lay not only in their words but also in their lived faith and sacrifice. He challenged the Church to rise to the same standard and called on national leaders to prioritize inclusion of the poor in all development initiatives.

“Let us not glorify King Mwanga but honor the martyrs who paid the ultimate price for their faith,” Orombi added.

He also urged Ugandans to become ambassadors of peace, especially as the country approaches the 2026 general elections.

“Repay evil with good. Let money be your servant, not your master,” he preached.

Mental Health and Youth Crisis

Archbishop Kaziimba raised concerns about the deteriorating mental health among Ugandan youth, linking it to increasing abuse of substances such as marijuana, alcohol, opioids, and tobacco.

“Our youth are perishing. These substances are destroying lives, fueling crime, and worsening mental health,” he warned.

He called on both the government and the Church to act jointly, advocating for more investment in school chaplaincy, mental health education, and rehabilitation services.

“Together, we can reclaim our children and build a brighter future for Uganda,” he stated.

Unfulfilled Government Pledges

The Archbishop also reminded President Museveni of previous government commitments that have yet to be fulfilled, including the distribution of tractors to all dioceses and financial support for the expansion of church infrastructure.

Closing Scene

As the celebration drew thousands to Namugongo, many attendees were seen shielding themselves from the scorching sun with umbrellas—a testament to their unwavering devotion.