Editorial
The Uganda Episcopal Conference has officially announced the complete cancellation of the 2026 National Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations at Namugongo Shrine, marking an unprecedented development in the country’s religious calendar.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, 26th May 2026, signed by the UEC chairman Bishop Joseph Anthony Zziwa, the conference confirmed that no national pilgrimage or central celebrations will take place at Namugongo Catholic Shrine this year.
The decision follows ongoing public health concerns linked to the Ebola outbreak, with strict adherence urged to government safety protocols.
Instead, the commemoration of the Uganda Martyrs Day on 3rd June will be fully decentralized, with all activities taking place at local parish and diocesan levels under the guidance of respective bishops and in consultation with health authorities.
Importantly, the Conference clarified that the Diocese of Kasese which had been designated to lead the 2026 national celebrations will now take full responsibility for animating the Martyrs Day celebrations in 2027.
Church leaders have urged the faithful to remain spiritually united in prayer despite the absence of the traditional national gathering. Special prayers have also been requested for the nation, healthcare workers, and all those affected by the ongoing health crisis.
According to Rt. Rev. Joseph Antony Zziwa, the decision was made in the interest of safeguarding life while preserving the spiritual significance of the Martyrs’ witness.