Hundreds expected at Uganda Martyr Gonzaga Day celebrations
The event, expected to draw pilgrims from across Uganda to honour the legacy of one of the nation’s revered martyrs, is being organised by the Jinja Catholic Church Diocese.
Hundreds expected at Uganda Martyr Gonzaga Day celebrations
By Vision Reporter
Journalists @New Vision
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Kaliro district will on Sunday, July 6, 2025, host the annual St Gonzaga Gonza Day national celebrations.
The event, expected to draw pilgrims from across Uganda to honour the legacy of one of the nation’s revered martyrs, is being organised by the Jinja Catholic Church Diocese. It will commemorate Gonzaga Gonza’s unwavering faith and sacrifice, marking 139 years since his martyrdom.
The celebrations at Bugonza Shrine in Kaliro district will also celebrate the life of the late Pope Francis and include prayers for Pope Leo XIV’s papacy.
Special presidential assistant on press and mobilisation Haji Faruk Kirunda confirmed President Yoweri Museveni's attendance as the Chief pilgrim.
Who was Gonzaga Gonza?
He was the sixth to be martyred. He was born around 1862 in Busoga, the son of Gonzabato. He was kidnapped when still a child and brought to Buganda, and grew up in the family of Nkambo Buluusi, who treated him as his son. Gonzaga behaved well and was obedient, exceptionally kind, trustworthy, intelligent and hardworking.
Gonzaga was taken to King Muteesa’s palace at the age of about 12 years. He first professed Islam, Protestantism and later became a Catholic, being baptised on November 17, 1885.
Gonzaga was a zealous and pious Catholic. He decided to go to prison on behalf of Namulabira, who had been falsely accused of befriending a princess and Nankya, one of the king's wives.
Gonzaga was arrested at Munyonyo and spent the night in chains. The executioners failed to remove them. But Gonzaga was determined to drag the chains fastening his bleeding legs to Namugongo.
On the way, he collapsed and was speared to death by Mukajanga and died on May 27, 1886, at the age of 24.
Gonzaga is the Patron of prisoners, travellers, the ill-treated and those in trouble.
Preparations and expectations
Jinja Catholic Diocese Chancellor Fr Gerald Mutto said preparations are “in high gear” to ensure a well-organised event.
Pilgrims will gather for Mass, processions, and reflections on Gonzaga’s life, emphasising themes of faith and resilience.