Clare Nayebare
Foot pilgrims from the Rwenzori region can rest assured of enhanced security throughout their annual pilgrimage to Namugongo for the Uganda Martyrs’ Day celebrations on June 3rd this year.
The assurance was given by the Rwenzori West Regional Police Commander, RPC James Ruwheza, during a security meeting held at Virika Hill yesterday. The meeting included the Security team and the Fort Portal Diocese office of the Pastoral Coordinator, and aimed to coordinate the safety of this year’s foot pilgrims from Rwenzori amid recent security threats, including ADF attacks in the region.
In his remarks, RPC Ruwheza urged pilgrims to adhere to the guidelines provided on May 22 at Bukwali Parish and emphasized the importance of proper coordination between the police and the pilgrims. He also clarified that the pilgrimage would be conducted entirely during the day to mitigate security risks.
“We have made security strategies which will cover the routes and road safety, we appeal to the pilgrims to adhere to the guidelines that will officially be unveiled to them on May 22nd 2024. We above all appeal for cooperation” He noted
RPC Ruwheza on Pilgrimage
RPC Ruwheza also addressed concerns about security in Kyenjojo, assuring improved measures following numerous complaints about safety in such pilgrims in past years.
Former president of the Uganda Martyrs’ Guild Fort Portal, Mr. Adolf Kamara Ruwheza, who has participated in the pilgrimage since 2006, praised the Ugandan government for progressively improving security for foot pilgrims.
He narrated that over the years of his foot pilgrimage, he has barely met any security threats, , something he attributed to the caring government led by the NRM.
The Pastoral Coordinator of Fort Portal Diocese, Rev. Fr. Gerald Akugizibwe, who hosted the meeting, encouraged pilgrims to follow security guidelines, such as walking during the day and observing road safety measures.
”We ask our esteemed pilgrims to adhere to the guidance by the security personnel, especially day movements, road safety measures and communication with security in-case of any disturbance” Noted Fr. Gerald
The President of the Uganda Martyrs’ Guild Movement in Fort Portal Diocese, Mr. Solomon Aliganyira, announced that pilgrims from Kasese, Bundibugyo, and other areas are expected to gather at Bukwali Parish on May 22nd for the official flag-off, under careful guidance from security personnel.
