Construction works of the amphitheatre at the Anglican shrine in Namugongo which will host over 4000 pilgrims during this year’s Martyr’s Day celebrations, is nearing completion. 

The amphitheatre nearing completion. Photos by Mpalanyi Ssentongo

By Friday last week, most seats had been fixed, while the planting of grass and beautifying of the venue is ongoing.  

Construction works to expand other church buildings ahead of the celebrations are also ongoing.

According to the chairperson of the central organising committee, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Affairs, Rebecca Kadaga, by June 3, 2023, all will be set.  

Addressing the media during a tour of the facility on Thursday, Kadaga said the government-funded construction works are being supervised by the Ministry of Works. 

“By the grace of God, Eastern Diocese will be the first to use this magnificent amphitheatre. Those of you who have been coming here in the past have been sitting on the grass. When it rains, the church disperses, but here we are, with the new amphitheatre, we thank the government,” Kadada said. 

Rt.Rev. Jackson Matovu addressing the media.

She was accompanied on the tour by bishops from all the dioceses under the Anglican Church, and Justice James Ogoola, the head of publicity of the central organising committee. 

Others were the state minister for East African Community affairs, Magode Ikuya, and Budadiri West County MP Nathan Nandala Mafabi among others. 

Front row (l-r):Rt. Rev.Paul Kiptoo Masaba of Sebei Diocese, Rt.Rev.Michael Okwii of Kumi Diocese,Rt. Rev. Jackson Matovu the Chairman Executive Committee Uganda Martyrs Museum Namugongo, Rt.Rev.Samuel Bogere Egesa,Chairman of the cluster, Rt.Hon.Rebecca Kadaga,Chairperson Central organising committee and Canon retired Justice Ogola in charge of publicity with other members of the clergy attending the press conference.

Rt. Rev. Samuel Bogere Egesa of Bukedi diocese the Chairman of the cluster talking to Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, the chairperson of the Central organizing committee.

Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga,1st Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs who is the chairperson central organising committee (left) Canon Sam Wairagala, head of laity Bukedi Diocese and Canon. Rtd Judge Justice James Ogola head of publicity during the press conference.