Cardinal Peter K. A. Turkson, Chancellor of the Pontifical Academy for Sciences and Special Envoy of Pope Francis has urged Africans to draw inspiration from the Ugandan Martyrs who were canonized 60 years ago, to build a brighter future founded on faith, integrity and transparency.
Cardinal Turkson hailed the martyrs as “true Africans transformed by the Gospel into worthy disciples of Jesus.” He emphasized their significance in shaping Africa’s Christian identity.
“The Ugandan Martyrs teach us valuable lessons: faith, integrity, transparency, and governance,” Cardinal Turkson said, adding that, “their witness inspires us to create a better future for our land and people,” he noted.
He made the remarks while leading a special ceremony held at St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican during the 60th anniversary of the canonization of the Uganda Martyrs.
The Cardinal highlighted the martyrs’ youth, noting that Charles Lwanga and his companions were young adults who embodied gospel values. This, he said, challenges contemporary youth to re-engage with faith.
“Let us become artisans of hope, embracing gospel values and promoting a corruption-free Africa,” he said.
Apostolic Nuncio to Uganda, H.E. Most Rev. Luigi Bianco described the Martyrs as “an extraordinary example of commitment and fidelity to the Lord, models of faith and hope, and authentic witnesses of truth and communion.”
Their testimony, he added, “is a call to all to become beacons of hope and instruments of peace, as well as promoters and defenders of the God-given dignity of every human person.”
Archbishop Emeritus of Kampala, Emmanuel Cardinal Wamala praised the Martyrs as “Uganda’s luminous heroes, models and mentors of the Catholic faith.”
He expressed profound gratitude to those who contributed to their canonization.
The Archbishop of Kampala, Paul Ssemwogerere emphasized the Martyrs’ bravery and devotion.
The Deputy Speaker was accompanied by Minister Justine Kasule Lumumba, State Minister of Finance, Henry Musasizi, and MPs Sarah Opendi, Joseph Ssewungu, and Herbert Ariko.
Former Leader of the Opposition, Mathias Mpuuga also joined the commemoration which honoured the Ugandan martyrs canonized by Pope Paul VI in 1964.
Today, the Uganda Martyrs are revered as patron saints of Africa, inspiring generations with their courage and conviction.
Their legacy extends beyond Uganda, symbolizing hope and resilience for persecuted Christians worldwide.
The Uganda Martyrs’ Shrine in Namugongo, Uganda, has become a pilgrimage site, attracting millions annually.
