The Church of Uganda has unveiled a drama that tells the story of the Uganda Martyrs (23 Anglicans and 22 Catholics) who were killed by Kabaka (king) Mwanga of Buganda between 1885 and 1887.

The Katikkiro (Benon Kibuuka, left) discusses an issue with Ssenkoole, one of Kabaka Mwanga's high-ranking executioners. Photos by Mathias Mazinga

The drama titled Ensigo Y’okukkiriza (Seed of Faith) was written by veteran play-wright Ssalongo Ntwatwa Musoke, directed by Vincent Jjingo Kizito, and acted by Locust Events dramatists, together with popular actors such as Uncle Benon Kibuuka, Leila Kalanzi, Dennis Kaweesa, Chris Kibukutu, Rock Luganzi, Male Musa, Patrick Ssembuusi and others. 

A scene from the play 'Ensigo Y'okukkiriza': Christian converts being tortured by Kabaka Mwanga's executioners.

The play was officially launched by the Chairman of the Uganda Martyrs Museum Development Committee, the Rt Bishop Jackson Matovu. The function took place at UMA Multi-Purpose Hall, Lugogo on Wednesday (May 24, 2023).

A scene from the play 'Ensigo Y'okukkiriza': The Katikkiro (Benono Kibuuka, right) delivering a report to Kabaka Mwanga (seated on the throne).

Bishop Matovu paid tribute to the respective dramatists and organizations such as Vision Group for partnering with the Church of Uganda to develop and promote the drama.

Engineer Stephen Tebyasa, a member of the Uganda Martyrs Museum Development Committee delivers his speech. On his left is Hajji Abbey Mukiibi, the emcee.

He said the proceeds from the drama will go towards the construction of the Uganda Martyrs Museum Tower at Namugongo Anglican Martyrs Site.

The actors imitating the Christian Missionaries, Fr. Lourdel Mapeera (left) and Alexander Mackay.

Matovu said the play will be taken to educational institutions, church halls, conventional theatre and government institutions such as the Parliament of Uganda, to give Ugandans the opportunity to watch it.

A scene from the play 'Ensigo Y'okukkiriza': Royal dancers entertaining Kabaka Mwanga (seated on the throne).

Bishop Jackson Matovu launches the Uganda Martyrs drama, 'Ensigo Y'okukkiriza' during its official launching at UMA Multi-Purpose Hall, Lugogo on Wednesday, May 24, 2023.

The wife of the late Archbishop Lvingstone Nkoyoyo, Ruth Nkoyoyo (right) enjoying the play with members of her family.

The Administrator of Uganda Martyrs Museum Project, Engineer Enock Rukundo delivers his remarks during the function. Standing with him is Hajji Abbey Mukiibi.