Pilgrims from Lango press on towards Namugongo

Hundreds of Christian faithful from Lira Diocese (Catholic), Lango Diocese, and West Lango Diocese (Anglican) have completed the second day of their spiritual pilgrimage to the Uganda Martyrs Shrine in Namugongo.

This sacred journey, undertaken on foot, is marked by deep faith, endurance, and national pride.

Pilgrims from Lira Catholic Diocese set off early Friday morning along the Lira–Kamdini–Kampala road. They spent their first night at Loro Catholic Parish and set off again the following morning, spending their second night at Diima Catholic Parish.

Meanwhile, their Anglican counterparts from Lango Diocese began their journey later in the afternoon via the Apac–Rwenkunye–Masindi Port Road. They spent the night at Agwiciri before proceeding to Aduku, where they took a long break.

There, they were joined by pilgrims from West Lango Diocese, and together they proceeded to Ibuje Parish, arriving late in the night.

Walter Ojok, the spokesperson for the group, noted that the Anglican pilgrims were flagged off by Rt Rev Dr Alfred Olwa, Bishop of Lango Diocese. At the point of departure, they numbered 273 and were joined by 109 others at Aduku, bringing the total to 382, with more expected to join along the way.

According to Gody Akiu, spokesperson for the Lira Diocese foot pilgrims, this year has seen a remarkable increase in participation.

“We are 967 pilgrims this year—many more than last year. I am truly happy to see this great number. Everyone is in good shape and high spirits. We expect to complete the journey in 12 days and reach Namugongo in time.”

Among the pilgrims is Sister Sylvia Ikol of the Missionary Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Church, who is taking part in her first foot pilgrimage.

Lira Diocese pilgrims rest at Alidi Primary School in Loro, Oyam district, on the first day. (Credit: Hudson Apunyo)

“Though I’ve been to Namugongo before, this is my first time walking. It’s not easy, but I feel great joy in my heart. Seeing elderly Christians walking inspires me as a young person to persevere through life’s challenges,” she said.

She added that her motivation stems from her deep faith and admiration for the Uganda Martyrs.

“I’m not walking to become a martyr, but to make sacrifices for the Kingdom of God. The faith of the martyrs inspires us, and I’m proud to be a Ugandan because of their legacy.”

Sister Sylvia encouraged other Christians to consider joining future pilgrimages—whether by foot, bicycle, or vehicle—as an expression of faith and devotion.

Another pilgrim, Catherine Okullo from Awelo St Luke Chapel, shared her deeply personal reasons for making the journey.

“I’ve had three Caesarean sections with severe complications. I came close to death. This pilgrimage is my prayer to God to spare me from that pain again. It’s my first time going to Namugongo, and I believe I’ll make it. I want my friends to know that this is a truly enriching journey of faith.”

Jimmy Orem, a traffic officer escorting the pilgrims, confirmed that all pilgrims from Lira Diocese spent the first night at Loro Catholic Parish and are in good health.
Veteran pilgrim Apiowio, who is undertaking the walk for the third time, testified to its power:

“Last year, I prayed for a means of transport, and God blessed me with a motorcycle. This year, I feel something is still missing, and I’m putting it before God again. I urge others to trust in God. On this journey, even the elderly are moving steadily.”

The pilgrims continue on their way, undeterred by weather or fatigue, united by faith and hope. As they advance day by day towards Namugongo, their spirits remain joyful and strong.