The Government has called on Ugandans to embrace peace, unity, and national cohesion during the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations, emphasizing that peace remains a cornerstone for economic growth and prosperity.
The call was made by the Minister-designate for Public Service, Gen. Katumba Wamala, while officiating at the 2026 National Martyrs Day Mass held at the Anglican Martyrs Shrine in Namugongo, Wakiso District.
The Mass was led by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Kazimba Mugalu, and attended by about 200 invited guests, including political leaders, religious figures, and members of the media at the newly constructed pavilion.
Gen. Katumba commended Uganda Christian University (UCU) for successfully organizing the celebrations in strict compliance with Ebola prevention guidelines.
Reflecting on the recently concluded electoral cycle, he urged citizens to support the newly elected government in implementing the National Resistance Movement (NRM) manifesto and delivering services to the people.
He further appealed to Ugandans to overcome political and religious divisions, describing them as artificial barriers that hinder national development and social harmony.
The minister-designate also called for a more practical and collective fight against corruption, noting that citizens must play a central role in promoting transparency and accountability within government institutions.
“As I prepare to assume responsibilities at the Ministry of Public Service, I will focus on streamlining the civil service to ensure that laws, regulations, and professional standards are fully respected and implemented,” he said.
In his homily, Archbishop Kazimba Mugalu praised UCU for spearheading development projects at the shrine, particularly the beautification of the grounds and the construction of a museum in honor of the late Bishop Livingstone Mpalanyi Nkoyoyo. He described the museum as a fitting tribute to the former archbishop’s legacy of service to both the Church and the nation.
The Archbishop also expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Museveni and the Ministries of Tourism and Finance for supporting the procurement of a modern public address system for the shrine, which is currently being shipped to Uganda.
Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Organizing Committee and Vice Chancellor of UCU, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, thanked Archbishop Kazimba for entrusting the university with the responsibility of hosting the 2027 Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations.
He said the opportunity would enable the institution to continue improving the shrine and museum to international standards, thereby boosting both domestic and international religious tourism.
Prof. Mushengyezi revealed that next year’s celebrations will focus on promoting the welfare and interests of children, noting that the Uganda Martyrs were predominantly young people.
“Children are the future of our society. Their aspirations and talents must be nurtured today through education, mentorship, and faith formation so that they can grow into responsible citizens and committed believers,” he said.
