During this year’s Martyrs Day celebration at the Anglican Martyrs Site in Namugongo, President Yoweri Museveni announced a directive to ensure annual funding for the event as part of the national budget.

"I have directed the government to make this contribution a permanent part of the budget, given the significant participation of Ugandans," Museveni stated.

For 2025, the government allocated Shs 2 billion each to the Catholic and Anglican dioceses, and Shs 200 million to the Muslim community to assist with event preparations.

Martyrs Day Draws Thousands Despite Security Concerns

President Museveni expressed delight at witnessing tens of thousands of people travel to Namugongo, with many camping overnight to pay tribute to the martyrs' legacy.

"I am happy to see so many of you walking here, celebrating, and remembering those young people who, 140 years ago, rejected Mwanga’s cruelty and narrow-mindedness," he remarked.

Despite security concerns, including an earlier terrorist attack at the Munyonyo shrine, the Martyrs Day celebrations proceeded as planned.

This year's event, themed "Lord, increase our faith" (Luke 17:5), was led by Lugazi Diocese, which took over from Nebbi Diocese, the host of 2024’s celebrations.

Martyrs Day: Security Thwarts Suicide Attack as Museveni Highlights Infrastructure Development

Security forces successfully neutralized an attempted suicide attack at the Namugongo shrine, ensuring the safety of pilgrims and participants. The attackers, moving on a bodaboda, attempted to access the shrine and detonate a suicide vest, but were swiftly intercepted.

Government Investment in Religious Sites

During the Martyrs Day celebrations, President Yoweri Museveni acknowledged the government’s efforts in modernizing infrastructure at both the Protestant and Catholic shrines in Namugongo to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims.

Museveni reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting all faith communities, including Muslims, stating:

"When the Muslims are ready, we shall also support them because I am told that some Muslim followers were killed by Mwanga."

Martyrs Day: A National Holiday Honoring History

Museveni also reflected on the historical significance of Martyrs Day, recounting how it became a public holiday in Uganda. Following the liberation war, the government and Cardinal Nsubuga agreed to officially designate June 3 as a national holiday, replacing the earlier practice of holding commemorations on weekends.

Martyrs Day is observed in honor of the young Ugandans who sacrificed their lives in the late 19th century, choosing faith over submission to King Mwanga’s rule.