The Church of Uganda has confirmed that this year’s Uganda Martyrs’ Day celebrations at the Anglican Site in Namugongo will be conducted scientifically under strict Ministry of Health guidelines following prevailing public health concerns in the region.

With only five days remaining to this year’s Uganda Martyrs’ Day celebrations, preparations are intensifying at the Uganda Martyrs’ Anglican Site in Namugongo ahead of the June 3rd commemoration.

Yesterday, the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, toured the site to assess the readiness of Uganda Christian University, which was mandated by the House of Bishops to organise this year’s celebrations on behalf of the Church of Uganda.

Speaking during an exclusive interview with COU Family TV, the Provincial Secretary of the Church of Uganda, Rev. Canon Captain William Ongeng, confirmed that this year’s celebrations will be held scientifically and in line with Ministry of Health Standard Operating Procedures due to the prevailing public health situation.

Canon Ongeng said all previous plans for mass pilgrimage to Namugongo should remain suspended in line with the guidance earlier issued by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni regarding public health safety.

He encouraged dioceses across the Province of the Church of Uganda to organise Martyrs’ Day commemorations from their respective parishes and dioceses under the guidance of their bishops while observing all health guidelines.

He further emphasised that attendance at the main national service at Namugongo Anglican Site will strictly be by invitation and limited to selected representatives in accordance with Ministry of Health directives.

Canon Ongeng urged Christians to follow the celebrations through COU Family TV and the station’s digital platforms, including YouTube, where proceedings from the main venue will be broadcast live.

He also revealed that Uganda Christian University has already finalised much of the scientific preparation required for the celebrations, including the official order of service and coordination arrangements.

Canon Ongeng warned that no uninvited persons will be allowed access to the Namugongo venue, noting that the site will be under tight security with only accredited and invited guests permitted entry.

Church authorities further confirmed that Uganda Christian University will continue coordinating this year’s scientific celebrations while also preparing to organise next year’s Uganda Martyrs’ Day commemorations.

The next organising cluster is to be officially announced during next year’s celebrations.

The Church of Uganda has continued to encourage Christians and members of the public to remain vigilant, observe Ministry of Health guidelines, and prioritise safety while commemorating the faith, courage, and sacrifice of the Uganda Martyrs.