Hundreds of thousands thronged Namugongo Martyrs shrines to commemorate immense contribution of 45 martyrs who were tortured to death under the orders of Kabaka Mwanga after they refused to denounce their faith between 1885- 1887.
Both Anglican and catholic shrines were full to the brim with pilgrims all over the world who had travelled from within different corners of Uganda and world over to physically participate in this annual spiritual day.
About 10 dioceses of Eastern Uganda led this year’s celebration at the Anglican site with angelic voices piping from a beautiful blue with yellow strips blend attire of 400 choir members unlike the 600 red dressed gomasi with a blend of sky-blue flavored on a kanzu that made a perfect match for Jinja Cathedral Choir at the catholic site.
Several dignitaries were in attendance both politicians, religious cultural including the Kyabazing of Busoga, William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope who encouraged faithful to emulate what the martyr’s lived for before proceeding to the catholic shrine too, Minister of Energy Ruth Nankabirwa, former speaker and 2nd deputy prime minister Rebecca Kadaga, UPC’s Jimmy James Michael Akena etc.
Meanwhile on the other side Bishop Charles Wamika delivered a precise short sermon themed “Lord increases our faith”. He among others encouraged Christians on a lighter moment to be serious with faith without joking while taking few hours on pork joints and on their phones.
Among the dignitaries during this celebration includes National Unity Platform President Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi who arrived at the venue amidst excitement, FDC Flag bearer in the 2021 election Patrick Amuriat, Prime minister Hon. Robina Nabanja, former vice president Edward Ssekandi. etc
The joint security agencies combed the two venues to ensure no security threat recorded in such large gatherings. According to police by end of the day, about 70 petty criminal offenders were arrested for petty crimes such as pick pocketing 10 children couldn’t locate their parents.
Take a look at camera shots of the day
