Fr. Conrad Urges Ugandans to Protect Nation’s Reputation

The Priest of Nyakibale Catholic Parish in Kabale Diocese, Rev. Fr. Conrad Atuhaire, has called on Ugandans to safeguard and promote the country’s reputation, highlighting its significance as the host of the annual Uganda Martyrs celebrations and its recognition as the “Pearl of Africa.”

Fr. Atuhaire made the remarks on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, while presiding over Uganda Martyrs Day Mass at Nyakibale Catholic Parish in Eastern Division, Rukungiri Municipality.

Uganda Martyrs Day is observed every year on June 3 to commemorate the 45 Christian converts—22 Catholics and 23 Anglicans—who were executed on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II between 1885 and 1887 for their faith. The day was declared a public holiday and national celebration in 1975 and attracts thousands of pilgrims from within Uganda and beyond.

In his homily, Fr. Atuhaire noted that Uganda’s role as the home of the Uganda Martyrs Shrine at Namugongo has made the country a respected destination for Christian pilgrimage across the world. He urged citizens to uphold values that preserve the nation’s image and continue promoting Uganda as a welcoming and faith-centered country.

The priest also encouraged Christians to strengthen their faith in Jesus Christ and avoid practices that compromise their spiritual commitment. He emphasized that true life and salvation are found in Christ and called on believers to remain steadfast in their Christian faith.

Meanwhile, some pilgrims who attended the celebrations at Nyakibale Catholic Parish expressed disappointment over the suspension of the main celebrations at Namugongo this year. They said they had hoped to participate in the traditional pilgrimage and prayers at the national shrine, which many believers consider a significant spiritual experience.

Despite the absence of the usual national gathering at Namugongo, Christians at Nyakibale Parish joined fellow believers across the country in commemorating the Uganda Martyrs through prayer, reflection, and renewed commitment to their faith.

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