The Northern Uganda Regional Cluster of dioceses is spearheading the organization of the 2025 Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations at Namugongo Anglican Site, with over one million pilgrims expected to gather on June 3rd to honor the legacy of the Martyrs.
The Northern Uganda Cluster comprising the Dioceses of Northern Uganda, Lango, West Lango, Madi-West Nile, Kitgum, and Nebbi—has officially taken charge of organizing the national celebration of Uganda Martyrs Day scheduled for June 3, 2025, at the Namugongo Anglican Martyrs Site.
The announcement was made during a high-level meeting at the Provincial Secretariat in Namirembe, presided over by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu. The meeting was attended by key bishops from the Cluster, including Bishop Wilson Kitara (Kitgum), Bishop Charles Collins Andaku (Madi-West Nile), Bishop Pons Awinjo Ozelle (Nebbi), Bishop Julius Caesar Nina Otim (West Lango), Bishop Prof. Alfred Olwa (Lango), and retired Bishop Johnson Gakumba (Northern Uganda). Also in attendance was Mr. Balaam Muheebwa, the Provincial Treasurer.
Bishop Godfrey Loum, speaking on behalf of the Cluster, announced that the main preacher for this year’s event will be the Rt. Rev. Henry Luke Orombi, the retired Archbishop of the Church of Uganda. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has been invited to serve as the Chief Guest.
The overall budget for the grand celebration has been finalized and shared with relevant stakeholders, with hopes high for significant government support to cover major items. Organizers anticipate over one million pilgrims from Uganda and abroad.
To enhance the experience and ensure safety, Bishop Loum noted that pregnant women and individuals with pre-existing health conditions are advised against undertaking the rigorous foot pilgrimage. A 400-member joint choir composed of 50 choristers from each participating diocese—will lead worship during the event.
As a lasting legacy, the Cluster plans to install solar-powered lighting at the Namugongo Anglican Martyrs Site. Security will be intensified to ensure the safety of pilgrims and dignitaries.
Archbishop Kaziimba praised the Cluster’s dedication and unity, acknowledging the spiritual significance of Martyrs Day and encouraging all Christians to draw inspiration from the courage and faith of the 45 Martyrs who gave their lives for Christ.
He also commended the leadership of Hon. Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, who chairs the National Organizing Committee, and urged mission and development partners to support the Cluster in fulfilling their mandate.
The stage is now set for what is expected to be one of the most vibrant and spiritually uplifting Martyrs Day celebrations in recent memory.