The Uganda Episcopal Conference has confirmed the cancelation of this year’s Uganda Martyrs Day Annual joint celebrations at Namugongo.
The Bishop of Kiyinda- Mityana Diocese and Chairman of Uganda Episcopal Conference, Rt. Rev. Joseph Antony Zziwa, in a statement released on Tuesday confirmed the cancellation, noting that the Diocese of Kasese will animate the celebrations in 2027.
“Further to the guidance issued by the Uganda Episcopal Conference in the press release dated Monday, 18th May 2026, we wish to inform the Catholic faithful and all stakeholders that the national Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations at Namugongo Catholic Shrine will not take place this year. Consequently, the Diocese of Kasese will animate the celebrations in 2027”the statement reads.
Rt. Rev. Zziwa revealed that this year’s commemoration of the Uganda Martyrs shall be held at local churches, under the guidance of the respective Diocesan Bishops and in consultation with the relevant Government authorities.
“Church leaders are urged to strictly observe the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) issued by the Ministry of Health regarding religious gatherings” he said.
Rt. Rev. Zziwa further called upon the Catholic faithful and all people of goodwill to continue praying for the country, health workers, and all those affected by the Ebola outbreak.
Recently, President Yoweri Museveni, announced the postponement following the outbreak of the Ebola virus in neighbouring DRC and consultation with the National Epidemic Response Task Force and religious leaders.
