The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has called upon Ugandans to confront pressing social issues including substance abuse and mental health, as thousands gathered at the Anglican Shrine in Namugongo to commemorate Uganda Martyrs Day.
Speaking during the national celebrations marking 140 years of the Uganda Martyrs’ legacy, Archbishop Kaziimba described the occasion as “a powerful reminder of sacrifice, faith, and the Lord’s love,” commending both local and international pilgrims for their unwavering devotion.
“We are celebrating 140 years of God’s faithfulness, mercy, love, and providence,” the Archbishop declared. “What the enemy meant for evil, God has turned into a blessing.”
The Archbishop decried the impact of alcohol, marijuana, tobacco, and other substances, stating that they are destroying lives across Uganda. He pledged the Church’s commitment to tackle these vices through advocacy in schools, communities, and even health institutions like Butabika Hospital.
On matters of healthcare, he appealed to the government to adopt a National Health Insurance Scheme, saying, “Some may argue it’s financially impossible, but where there is a will, there is a way.”
Kaziimba also commended the government for its support to faith-based institutions, particularly the UGX 10.7 billion funding toward Phase I construction of the Anglican shrine. “We thank Your Excellency for supporting faith-based tourism. The shrine has attracted thousands and generated income,” he said.
In addition to spiritual leadership, the Archbishop emphasized the Church’s humanitarian role, citing recent aid deliveries to Nakivale Refugee Settlement. “Our work is not only spiritual but practical,” he noted.
Ahead of the 2026 general elections, Archbishop Kaziimba called on Ugandans to uphold peace and democratic values. “Support peace, resist the politics of violence, and go out to vote. Let’s be good stewards of this nation,” he urged.
The preacher of the day, Rt. Rev. Henry Luke Orombi, the former Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, drew from Galatians and 3 John in his sermon, urging believers to “overcome evil with good” and remain steadfast in their faith. “The foundation of the Church in Uganda is based on the sacrifices and the blood of the martyrs,” he emphasized.
Rt. Rev. Godfrey Loum, Bishop of Northern Uganda and Chairperson of this year’s organizing Northern Cluster, thanked the Church leadership for entrusting them with the national celebration.
He said the regional dioceses, including Lango, Kitgum, Nebbi, West Lango, Madi, and West Nile, had worked together to deliver a unified and meaningful celebration. “Our hope is to contribute to the growth of faith in the Anglican Church and to position Namugongo as a global faith destination,” he said.
The annual Uganda Martyrs Day, observed every June 3rd, honors the memory of 45 Christian converts – 22 Catholics and 23 Anglicans – who were executed between 1885 and 1887 on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II in the historical kingdom of Buganda.
The day is marked by mass pilgrimages, with faithful walking for hundreds of kilometers across Uganda and beyond.
This year’s celebration drew thousands of pilgrims from East African countries and beyond, including Nigeria, South Sudan, Rwanda, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, transforming the Namugongo Shrine into a hub of religious unity and devotion.
High-profile guests in attendance included Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, Hon. Amama Mbabazi, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, Hon. Matia Kasaija, Hon. David Bahati, and several ministers, Members of Parliament, diplomats, and cultural leaders.
