UPF Uganda Honors Uganda Martyrs’ Day with Student-Led Commemorative Walk

Written by UPF-Africa

Tuesday, June 3^rd, 2025

Namugongo, Uganda – Uganda Martyrs’ Day is one of the nation’s most significant commemorations, paying tribute to the young men and women who were brutally executed under the reign of Kabaka Mwanga of Buganda in the late 19th century. These courageous martyrs, both Christian and Muslim, refused to renounce their faith, enduring torture and a harrowing forced march to Namugongo, where many were burned to death.

The Catholic and Anglican Shrines at Namugongo stand as enduring symbols of their sacrifice. Historical accounts tell of 45 Christian martyrs killed between 1885 and 1887, alongside an estimated 70 Muslim martyrs, bringing the total to over 120 lives lost for their beliefs.

This day has grown into an international pilgrimage attracting up to three million visitors annually from Uganda and beyond. Pilgrims from Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Sudan often walk hundreds of kilometers in groups to honor the martyrs’ journey. Over the years, distinguished visitors such as Pope Paul VI (1969), Pope John Paul II (1993), and Pope Francis (2016) have paid their respects at Namugongo. Other notable figures include President Julius Nyerere of Tanzania, remembered for his daily Catholic devotion and now being considered for sainthood, as well as respected UPF leaders like Dr. Kathy Rigney, known affectionately as the Mother of Africa, and Mrs. Margaret Kokunda, a member of the Women’s Federation for World Peace from Nigeria.

This year, the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) Uganda Chapter joined in honoring this deeply meaningful day by sponsoring students from Peace High School and the surrounding neighborhood for a special commemorative walk. Mimicking the historic martyrs’ journey, the students marched with purpose and solemn respect, reflecting on the sacrifice and courage of those who stood for their faith and convictions.

Community members lined the route, cheering on the students and sharing in the spirit of remembrance. The event sparked meaningful conversations about faith, tolerance, and the importance of peacebuilding in today’s world. By supporting this student-led initiative, UPF Uganda sought not only to honor the martyrs’ legacy but also to inspire the next generation to uphold values of peace, understanding, and resilience.

Through this activity, the Universal Peace Federation continues its mission to foster unity and interfaith harmony, ensuring that the lessons of the past serve as a foundation for a more peaceful and compassionate future.