2026 Martyrs' Day: Kasese Catholic Diocese says needs sh4.5b to lead celebrations

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The Kasese Catholic Diocese says it has so far collected shillings 250 million of 4.5 billion it needs to lead this year's Uganda Martyrs' Day celebrations at Namugongo in Wakiso district.

The diocese is, therefore, urging well-wishers to come to its aid for it to successfully lead the June 3 event, which attracts thousands of people from across the globe.

Kasese bishop Francis Aquirinus Kibira made the revelations shortly after mass at Our Lady of Assumption Catholic Cathedral in Kasese municipality's central division on March 1, 2026. This was during the launch of preparations for the pilgrimage of the eastern zone in the Kasese district.

The annual Martyrs' Day commemorates the heroic 45 Catholic and Anglican martyrs, who were killed by burning and beheading for their faith at the hands of Buganda King (Kabaka) Mwanga between 1885 and 1887.

Benjamin Cadet, the Member of Parliament Bunyaruguru county in Rubirizi district calling upon all political leaders across the country and government to support the celebrations reflecting on the role of the Church in the development of the nation.

Of the total number, 22 were professing Catholicism, while 23 were Protestant. The occasion attracts millions of pilgrims from all over the world to both Shrines at Namugongo, where they were burnt to ashes.

The 22 Catholic Martyrs were beatified on June 6, 1920, by Pope Benedict XV and were declared saints on October 18, 1964, by Pope Paul VI.

Speaking to New Vision Online, Kibira said the diocese last led the celebrations in 2005 and urged 'the public for financial and all kinds of support'.

Kibira called for spiritual preparations in Kasese, Uganda and the world at large, reflecting on the faith of the Ugandan Martyrs who sacrificed themselves for Christianity.

"The spiritual preparations should begin with us, the priests, including those abroad, by praying for the success of the event," he said.

Call for support

Bunyaruguru County Member of Parliament Benjamin Cadet, who graced yesterday's function as the chief guest, urged all political leaders across the country and the Government to support the celebrations, reflecting on the role of the Church in the development of the nation.

"The Church has been instrumental in supporting the health, education and other sectors," Cadet said.

He used the same platform to appeal to the parents to educate their children, as well as inculcate religious values in them.

"You cannot lure a God-fearing leader into acts of corruption," he said.

This year's Uganda Martyrs celebrations are leaning on a theme: Christ is alive in you and me. Galatians 2: 19-20.