The Ugandan president further lauded the Nebbi Diocese for organizing this year’s pilgrimage, which he described as “enriching.”
He also acknowledged the presence of Mary Nyerere, who he said always attends the pilgrimage at Namugongo to pray for the beatification and canonization of her spouse, Servant of God Julius Kambarage Nyerere, who was former prime minister and then president of what is now Tanzania.
Pope Benedict XVI declared Nyerere a servant of God on May 13, 2005.
“I want to thank Mary Nyerere for coming here every moment we have this pilgrimage to pray for the beatification of Julius Nyerere,” Museveni said. “I am a witness to the good work of Julius Nyerere.”
Museveni, who has led Uganda since 1986, urged all those gathered at the event to emulate the late Tanzanian president for his heroic virtues.
Ugandan Martyrs’ Day dates back to the first decade of Christian presence in the East African nation when 45 men between the ages of 14 and 50 were killed because of their faith between 1885 and 1887.
Among the 45 were 22 Catholics who were beatified in 1920 and canonized in 1964. These martyrs continue to inspire the Catholic faith in Uganda and around the world.
This article was first published by ACI Africa, CNA’s news partner in Africa, and has been adapted by CNA.
Silas Mwale Isenjia is a Kenyan journalist with a great zeal and interest in Catholic Church-related communications. He holds a bachelor’s degree in linguistics, media, and communication from Moi University in Kenya. He has vast experience in the media production industry. He currently works as a journalist for ACI Africa.
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