By Leonard Mukooli
Hundreds of pilgrims continue arriving at both the Catholic and Anglican Shrines to prepare for prayers in celebration of the Martyr’s day which is slated for 3rd June 2023.
According to Bishop Samuel George Bogere Egesa of Bukedi Diocese and Leader of the Eastern Cluster Church of Uganda Martyrs Day, President Museveni will attend prayers at the Anglican church while the Arch Bishop of the Anglican Church of North America Foley Beach has been designated to be the main preacher at the Anglican shrine.
This year, the Anglican Martyrs Site has undergone remarkable changes, presenting a picturesque transformation for the faithful. The newly enhanced location boasts increased beauty and improved facilities compared to its previous state. While it may not rival the size of Catholic shrines, the ongoing construction of the amphitheater and a new church has already injected a sense of vibrancy into the atmosphere, setting the stage for an exciting June 3rd.
The metamorphosis of this sacred site is truly remarkable. Take, for instance, the amphitheater, which now offers a captivating view from every angle. Unlike the Catholic side, where plastic chairs were often rented, leading to increased costs, the Anglican site has installed fixed seating on all sides of the amphitheater. In addition to the amphitheater, there are now designated spaces for pilgrims to sit on the ground. These areas, too, are being carefully nurtured and adorned, providing a serene atmosphere for visitors to immerse themselves in contemplation and prayer.
The amphitheater also features modern amenities, including toilets, washing rooms, its own control centers, and a fixed public address system. It has also been equipped with a CCTV room and several security rooms, ensuring the safety and security of the site. To ensure uninterrupted operations, a dedicated power room has been established with robust industrial-level generators as backups in case of electricity outages.
Adjacent to the amphitheater, a specifically designed platform stage has been constructed to serve as the location for the altar. This built area is directly connected to the church, which is currently undergoing construction following the demolition of the old one. Significant improvements have also been made to the famous Martyrs Spring Well, a historic site where Mukanjana, Buganda kingdom’s chief executioner, is said to have washed his weapons after committing an act of violence.
The water from this well was believed to have flowed with blood, and people consider it holy. Visitors often form long queues, patiently waiting for hours to collect this sacred water. To enhance the visitor experience, sculptures depicting Mukajanga and his men resting and washing their weapons have been installed at this location. Additionally, the water from the spring will now be channeled towards the back of the left wing of the amphitheater, creating a designated area for pilgrims to collect the water while ensuring that locals who rely on it as a water source can continue to do so.
The authorities have provided confirmation that the site, which required an investment of 13.1 billion Shillings, is rapidly approaching completion, with approximately 90 percent of the construction work already accomplished. Despite the remaining tasks, they are resolute in their decision to hold this year’s celebrations at the site. Amidst the evolving landscape of the Anglican Martyrs Site, it is worth acknowledging that the concept of transforming it into a globally acclaimed faith-based tourism center was first envisioned by the late Livingstone Mpalanyi Nkoyooyo, the former Archbishop of the Church of Uganda.
10 dioceses of the Eastern cluster will lead the 2023 Uganda Martyrs Day Celebrations at Namugongo. These are Bukedi, Mbale, Sebei, Soroti, Busoga, Central Busoga, Kumi, Karamoja,