The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, has commended the transformation of the Uganda Martyrs Shrine Namugongo, describing the site as elevated to international standards ahead of the annual Martyrs Day commemorations.
During a visit to inspect preparations at the Anglican shrine in Namugongo, the archbishop praised Uganda Christian University for improving sanitation, accessibility, and the overall environment at the holy site.

The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, visited the Uganda Martyrs site at Namugongo, where he applauded the ongoing renovations and preparations undertaken by Uganda Christian University ahead of the Martyrs Day celebrations.

Quoting Hebrews chapter 12 verses 1 to 2, the Archbishop emphasized holiness, compassion, and consideration for others as key lessons Christians should draw from the Uganda Martyrs.
He noted that the Namugongo site had greatly improved in sanitation, beautification, and accessibility standards.

The archbishop particularly praised Uganda Christian University for putting in place facilities that cater to persons with disabilities.

However, the archbishop appealed for a stronger culture of maintenance to preserve the facilities that have been constructed at great cost.
He also encouraged Christians to make proper use of the improved facilities at Namugongo.
Regarding requests by Uganda Christian University to organize a scientific and limited commemoration following concerns linked to Ebola, Archbishop Kaziimba said consultations with relevant government authorities were still ongoing since the matter involved a presidential directive.
At the same time, he reminded Christians that June third remains a public holiday dedicated to worship.

The archbishop nevertheless reassured Uganda Christian University that it would be given the opportunity to organize a full Martyrs Day celebration next year.

Meanwhile, the vice chancellor of Uganda Christian University, Associate Professor Aaron Mushengyezi, highlighted the improvements undertaken at the shrine.

He said despite interruptions caused by the Ebola outbreak, the university had been granted permission to continue and complete the remaining works at the shrine ahead of next year’s celebrations.

The Chairperson of the Governing Council at Uganda Christian University and Bishop of Lango Diocese, the Rt. Rev. Prof. Alfred Olwa, said the university remained committed to serving both the Church and the nation.

He added that although Ebola-related challenges had affected preparations this year, the organizing committee had worked tirelessly to ensure the site remained ready for the occasion.

The visit concluded with the archbishop, university officials, and other church leaders planting trees at the Namugongo Martyrs site as a symbol of faith, renewal, and environmental conservation.

For now, Church leaders are encouraging Christians across the country to commemorate the Uganda Martyrs with prayer and reflection as consultations continue on the final arrangements for this year’s celebrations.