Munyonyo Martyrs' Shrine to accommodate over 1050

By Juliet Lukwago              

The Uganda Martyrs' Catholic Shrine at Munyonyo that is still under construction in preparation for the Pope’s visit will accommodate over 1050 Christians.

The shrine is also expected to accommodate an additional 500 Christians who will sit out of the premises.

This was revealed by the shrine rector, Fr. Marian Golab a.k.a Kajubi, during the tour by the Finance and Construction Committee led by the Vice chairman of the Uganda Episcopal Conference (UEC) National preparatory committee for Pope Francis’ Pastoral visit to Uganda, Archbishop of Kampala, Dr Cyprian Kizito Lwanga.

He said that construction of Munyonyo Shrine is in top gear, with the Church doubling its labor, to meet the deadline of the preparations for Pope Francis’ pilgrimage to Uganda in November 27-29.

Munyonyo Uganda Martyrs' Shrine under construction as Uganda prepares for Pope Francis' visit on November 27
PHOTO BY JULIET LUKWAGO

“Munyonyo Church will be among the tallest buildings in the country standing at 45 meters, with a crucifix at 18 metres, and will accommodate 1050 inside and 500 Christians outside,” Golab said.

Golab said that their plan is to embark on the roofing next week before plastering and painting of the facilities.

“Most of the works are done but we are remaining with obtaining and fixing windows, doors and the monuments,” he said.

Construction is being undertaken by SEYANI Construction International and the architectural plans by Robert Sseremba.

Golab said it was at Munyonyo where Mwanga took the decision to kill all the Christians at that time.

“The first phase is already done; were remaining with roofing and this week Sseremba revealed that they have doubled the labor in order to meet the set deadline.

“We are working day and night to beat the deadline and our team is well equipped to meet the task in the remaining time," he said.

Lwanga noted on inspection that the construction team was doing a tremendous job.

“With such a spirited effort put by the workers, I am confident that works will be done before the Pope’s arrival,” Lwanga said.

Lwanga said the Pope’s journey from Munyonyo will be to retrace the journey of the martyrs to Namugongo, where they were butchered and burnt.

He revealed the theme of the Pontiff’s visit to Uganda as; “You will be my witness.”

“The Church will hold a nine day prayer (Novena) in preparation of the visit. Praying for him for journey mercies and God to guide him well.”

He also called upon the Christians to emulate the bravery, faith and unity of the martyrs, who died for their faith.

The pope is expected to jet in the country on the afternoon of November 27, this year.

Meanwhile, Justine Kazibwe Nalongo, secretary to Uganda Martyrs and shrines development, said the Church is seeking sh80bn to complete the construction works of both Martyrs’ shrines at Namugongo and Munyonyo

The funds are to purchase several construction materials.

“We call upon Christians and Ugandans to participate in programs including “YOYOOTA” the Raffle draw, where people win the Archbishop Lwanga’s Mercedes Benz; charity walk to Namugongo Martyrs' Shrine on October 31 organised by  Vision Group, and purchase of rosaries at sh100,000.