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WAKISO - Youth from different dioceses that make up the Provincial Church of Uganda have convened at Namugongo Anglican Martyrs Shrine for the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations specially organised for the youth.

139 years later, millions of pilgrims from all over Uganda and abroad are expected to flock Namugongo to celebrate as well as reflect on the lives of 23 Anglican martyrs who were killed on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga of Buganda between 1885 to 1887.

The main celebrant is Mukono Diocese retired bishop James Williams Ssebaggala who is representing the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu. (All Photos by Lawrence Mulondo)

The event, organized under the theme ‘Exposition’ is attracting youth from dioceses that include Madi West Nile, Masindi Kitara, Ruwenzori, Busoga diocese, Bukedi, Namirembe, and Kigezi among others.

This year’s celebrations at the Anglican shrine are being organized by a cluster of Ruwenzori Dioceses that include East Ruwenzori, South Ruwenzori, West Ruwenzori, and Bunyoro Kitara among others.

Children during prayer.

According to organisers, over 3000 youth are expected to grace the celebration with the main celebrant being Mukono Diocese retired bishop James Williams Ssebaggala who is representing the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu.

"As we gather today, let us revive the vibe as youth so that we feel your presence in the church. You make the biggest percentage of people in the country. We the old are at the veranda leaving the house, it is you the youth to take up the house. The martyrs stood for their faith and had the same blood and flesh as you here. As you leave this place, I pray that you leave inspired and strong to stand firm for Christianity and its teaching," the prelate preached.

The site is also expected to host a hive of activities for the day including story sessions on martyrs, praise and worship sessions, age group sessions, and games among others.

Over 3000 youth have graced the celebrations.

Security at the venue has also been beefed up with men in police and army uniforms being present to keep law and order.