Celebrating the Uganda Martyrs: a moment of reflection for Ugandans
Uganda is currently busy with the preparations for the celebrations of the Uganda Martyrs, which take place every year on 3rd June. This day commemorates the martyrdom of 45 young men who were executed in the late 19th century for their Christian faith. The Uganda Martyrs were a group of 45 young men, 22 Catholics and 23 Anglicans, who were executed by Kabaka Mwanga II, the King of Buganda, between 1885 and 1887.
They were killed for their refusal to renounce their Christian faith, which was a key factor in the political and religious struggles occurring in Buganda at the time. Kabaka Mwanga II was hesitant to embrace Christianity, and he viewed the growing number of converts as a threat to his power and traditional beliefs.
He ordered the execution of the young men who refused to renounce their faith. The 45 young men were primarily servants in the palace and other members of the Buganda community who had converted to Christianity.
The executions took place in various locations, with many burned alive at Namugongo, a common site for executions in Buganda.
After the execution, many more Baganda and other tribes in Uganda began to rapidly convert to Christianity because they had been inspired by the Martyrs and they believed that there was a higher power than what they initially believed in.
The canonization of the 22 Ugandan Catholic Martyrs, including Charles Lwanga and Matiya Mulumba, was a significant event in the Catholic Church’s history. Pope Paul VI declared them saints on October 18, 1964, at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. This ceremony concluded a 52-year process that began with their beatification in 1920. 3rd June was later on declared a public holiday in Uganda to celebrate and remember these young men.
This annual event draws hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from Uganda and beyond, converging at the shrine in Namugongo, where the martyrs were killed. It is reported that nearly three million people attended the 2023 Martyrs day celebrations at Namugongo. The government deploys thousands of security personnel at Namugongo and during the processions to ensure peaceful celebrations.
The celebrations of the Martyrs majorly include processions where pilgrims walk hundreds of Kilometres to Namugongo from various parishes across the country and beyond to emulate the perseverance and endurance of the Martyrs.
Along their route, they are accommodated at various pastoral centres such as Catholic parishes, mission schools, and church institutions. During stops, they rest, pray, and partake in meals provided to sustain them physically and spiritually.
This year, some pilgrims expressed that their journey is also a prayer for peace, unity, inner healing, and family deliverance. As Uganda prepares for general elections (12 January 2026), many are praying through the intercession of the Uganda Martyrs for free, fair, and peaceful elections.
This day is inspirational for all Christians across the country and those that don’t make it to Namugongo still celebrate in their respective parishes. For someone visiting Uganda around this time, it is an perfect opportunity to participate in this event that not only includes prayers but also gives insights on the traditions and beliefs of Ugandans. A lot of activities take place during these celebrations like cultural performances, food and drink tasting, community work and lots of exhibitions.
It is generally a life changing experience that you can not afford to miss. GoFurther 4×4 Car Rentals is here for any inquires or updates on these celebrations. You can always visit Namugongo any time of the year. There is a resource centre at the shrine where you’ll be availed with all the information you may need.
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