President Museveni has directed that government funding for Martyrs Day celebrations be included in the national budget annually, recognizing the spiritual significance and widespread participation of Ugandans across all religious denominations.
“This year, the government gave the Catholics Shs 2 billion, the Protestant Shs 2 billion, and the Muslims Shs 200 million for this occasion,” he said. “I have directed the government to make this contribution part of the annual budget, as many Ugandans participate.”
Museveni, accompanied by the First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni, made these remarks while addressing thousands of Christians at the Namugongo Anglican site during the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations.
The event, led by the Northern Uganda Cluster, was themed: “Imitating God’s Goodness by Doing Good (Galatians 6:9–10).”
The president emphasized the government’s continued investment in religious infrastructure. “As you all know, the government spent billions modernizing the infrastructure you see today at both the Catholic and Protestant sites. When the Muslims are ready, we shall also support them, as I am told some Muslim followers were also killed by Mwanga. May God bless all of you,” he said.
He explained that these religions offered new perspectives on the divine, complementing Uganda’s indigenous faith traditions.
“It was wrong for Mwanga to try to suppress this new perspective about the supernatural realm,” the President said. “It is commendable that young boys, and some girls, I am told, were ready to give up their lives for freedom of worship.” He saluted this spirit of sacrifice, adding, “This is what everyone should know about Africans in this region: they can sacrifice for the legitimate causes they believe in.”
He also linked this historical sacrifice to modern struggles, referencing the 1981 resistance in Kikandwa against Bazilio Okello. “Luttamaguzi Edidian, their leader, told them: ‘Temulajana’—do not lament,” he recalled.
Museveni reiterated the importance of religious freedom and the secular nature of the Ugandan state.
“We believe in freedom of worship and not coercing people to believe in one thing or another, as long as they do not break the law. We also believe in separating denominational issues from government matters, which are for all citizens and even non-citizens in Uganda,” he said.
The President reminded Ugandans of the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) core missions: creating prosperity, ensuring continental security, and leveraging African unity for mutual growth. “If all adults become wealth creators, who will buy their products and services? Tribal and sectarian markets are not enough. The national market of Uganda is better, hence our first ideological principle: patriotism—love Uganda, because you need it for your prosperity,” he said. “But even Uganda’s market is not big enough. Have you heard of East Africa? Have you heard of Africa? They can buy your surplus. That’s why we embrace Pan-Africanism—love Africa.”
He also highlighted social-economic transformation and democracy as guiding principles. President Museveni urged believers not to mix politics with denominational loyalty. “Politics is about our welfare on Earth. Denominations and religion are about spirituality on Earth and life after, which religious leaders can explain better,” he said.
Drawing on his experience as President of the Scripture Union (1965–1966), he quoted Luke 10:30-35, the Parable of the Good Samaritan, to emphasize religious tolerance and service.
“The Samaritan helped the injured man while his fellow Jews, who were religious leaders, passed him by. Jesus praised the Samaritan. We shall know them by their fruits,” he said. He also quoted the Church of Uganda Prayer Book, page 207: “Let your light so shine before men that they see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”
Lessons from the Bush
Recalling his days in the liberation struggle, Museveni shared how religious diversity was harmonized through shared knowledge and practical survival.
“In the bush, I lived with Catholics, Anglicans, Muslims, and traditional believers. We united them around science—a bullet kills. Prayers help, but a reed won’t stop a bullet,” he said.
The Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, who also chairs the National Organizing Committee, delivered a heartfelt message on behalf of the Northern Cluster.
“On this sacred ground, faith has truly surpassed fear. The Northern Cluster is deeply honored to have led this year’s commemoration. It is not only a privilege but a testament to unity across religions,” she said.
Aceng praised Museveni’s focus on education, health, peace, and economic empowerment.
“Your Excellency, your dedication to peacebuilding has been felt throughout the nation. Let this Martyrs Day renew our commitment to building a nation anchored on love, justice, and unity,” she said.
Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, led the main service with a powerful message of resilience, hope, and spiritual recommitment.
“The appeal today is simple: it’s a call to stand for Jesus. Those who died here would not regret their sacrifice if they saw what Namugongo has become. What was meant for evil, God has turned into a blessing,” he said.
He congratulated the Northern Uganda Cluster for successfully leading the event and thanked international pilgrims for their devotion.
“We are celebrating 140 years of God’s faithfulness, mercy, love, and providence. This is not just an event; it’s a powerful reminder of sacrifice, faith, and the Lord’s love,” he noted.
Archbishop Kaziimba highlighted the Church’s humanitarian role, such as recent aid deliveries to Nakivale Refugee Camp.
“Let us continue these good deeds. Our work is not only spiritual but practical,” he said. He also applauded the government’s support for the faith sector, particularly the Shs 10.7 billion for Phase I construction of the Anglican shrine.
The preacher of the day, Rt. Rev. Henry Luke Orombi, former Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, delivered a sermon from Galatians 6:5, Galatians 6:9–10, and 3 John 11, encouraging believers not to be overcome by evil but to overcome evil with good.
“The foundation of the Church in Uganda is built on the sacrifices and blood of the martyrs,” he affirmed.
