Uganda is not only known as the Pearl of Africa but also for the religious pilgrimage to the Namugongo Martyrs Shrine.
This year’s celebrations are underway with President Yoweri Museveni as the Guest of Honour at the Catholic Shrine, while Speaker of Parliament Anita Among is the Guest of Honour at the Anglican Shrine.
Annually, around this time, businesses in Namugongo boom as Christians from all walks of life gather for the prayer sessions and celebrations dedicated to honoring the Catholic and Anglican converts who were executed for their faith between 1885 and 1887 at the orders of Kabaka Mwanga.
This historical day sees the biggest gathering in the country.
However, the pilgrimage to Namugongo means much more to the locals than just remembering the martyrs. The celebration features a series of events.
The event has evolved from an emotional faith and religious ceremony to also include various activities. In terms of everyday life, the celebration is a source of income for the locals. Ugandans who love business have used the event as an avenue to make more money, selling all sorts of products to the pilgrims.
The list of items sold is dominated by beverages, soft drinks, pork, and other edibles because business people are assured of a ready market at quite higher prices.
The Namugongo celebration is partly famous for pork, as the delicacy is the main type of meat consumed.
WARNING:
Even though the 3rd of June every year is a prayer day, people are reminded to be careful with their lives and properties.
It is known that there are some wicked people, especially pickpockets, who join the congregation. People are also reminded to be cautious about who they trust with their belongings and confidential information.
However, people are also assured of peace and order during this event. The Uganda People’s Defense Force (UPDF), together with the Uganda Police, have deployed army personnel and police officers to ensure the safety of people and their properties.
In general, be part of Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations; pray, confess, testify, get delivered, and celebrate the lives of Christian converts who sacrificed their lives for the word of God to spread and reach many people in all parts of the world. Uganda Martyrs’ Day is indeed a day to celebrate.
