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The greater Ruwenzori Dioceses have launched a drive to raise up to sh2.04billion for the 2024 Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations at Anglican site in Namugongo.

The annual event pays homage to the 22 Catholic and 23 Anglican martyrs, who were executed for their faith on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga of Buganda between 1885 and 1887.

Millions of pilgrims from within and outside Uganda are expected to visit Namugongo, the site where the majority of the converts were martyred, in celebration of their bravery, making the fete a key event on the Church Calendar.

The member dioceses to host are Ruwenzori, Bunyoro-Kitara, West Ruwenzori, East Ruwenzori, South Ruwenzori and Masindi Kitara dioceses.

The day will be celebrated under the theme ‘Conforming to the truth of God’s word and not the patterns of this world’ which was derived from Roman 12:1-2. The main preacher will be the Archbishop of the Church of Nigeria, Henry Ndukuba.

During a courtesy visit to Vision Group offices on 7th Street in Kampala, the bishop of Ruwenzori Diocese, Reuben Kisembo, said the diocese is reaching out to all people of goodwill to support their efforts in raising funds.

“As a diocese, we have made some calculations and we need close to sh2.04 billion to be able to successfully lead this function well at Namugongo. We are calling upon all Christians to help us in raising the funds,” Bishop Kisembo, said.

Bishop Kisembo was accompanied by Bishop George William Kasangaki of Masindi Kitara Diocese, Bishop Samuel Kahuma of Bunyoro Kitara and Adaams Sadiiki, The Church of Uganda communication officer.

Bishop Kisembo also expressed his gratitude to Vision Group for always supporting church projects.

“We want to thank all Vision Group platforms for supporting us in promoting God’s work whenever we approach you,” Bishop Kisembo noted.

He asked Christians to celebrate responsibly during this festival season so that they get into next year alive and healthy.

“Drive responsibly and spend responsibly. Those who are driving go slow so that you reach home safely,” Bishop Kisembo said.

Speaking at the event, Bishop George William Kasangaki of Masindi Kitara Diocese, called upon Ugandans to repent and turn back to God. He reminded all Ugandans to avoid being duped by some fake priests who ask for money.

“We have men of God who organize prayers and ask people for money to be able to get miracles. We are calling upon believes to desist from going to such churches,” Bishop Kasangaki said.

Vision Group’s Chief Executive Officer, Don Wanyama. (Credit: Miriam Namutebi)

In his speech, the Vision Group’s Chief Executive Officer, Don Wanyama, noted that in such a challenging situation, Vision Group finds refuge in the Lord. He pledged his support to the Dioceses during the celebrations.

“We thank you for choosing one of our own to be on the organizing team, as a company it is a vote of confidence. We have always supported the Church and even this time we are going to support you by rallying people to attend,” Wanyama said.

After a meeting with Vision Group Management team, the bishops toured the various departments of Vision Group; from the radio, editorial and television departments. Bishop Samuel Kahuma of Bunyoro Kitara, prayed for the staff members and dedicated the company to God to continue leading in the market.

Staff members from the Anglican faith and other religions warmly received the blessings and were excited that the bishops had visited the company.

The Martyrs celebrations are more fulfilling because of the sacrifice many Ugandan Christians and others from other countries endure, walking for many days, some from near, others far, to celebrate Martyrs Day.

Programme

25th May —Children’s event

28th May —Youth event

29th May — Mother’s union event

30th May —Men’s conference

31st to 2nd June —Mission and overnight prayers

3rd June —Main celebrations