MTN Uganda has contributed Shs20 million to the Kasese Diocese in support of preparations for the 2026 Catholic Martyrs Day celebrations at Uganda Martyrs Shrine Namugongo.
The contribution was handed over on Wednesday in Kasese by Andrew Tusubira, MTN Uganda’s Commercial Head for West, to Bishop Francis Aquirinus Kibira, as the diocese intensifies preparations for the annual pilgrimage ahead of the June 3 celebrations.
This year’s Catholic Martyrs Day celebrations will be led by the Kasese Diocese under the theme, “Christ is Alive in You and Me,” drawn from Galatians 2:19–20.
Beyond the financial support, MTN Uganda said it will also provide reflector jackets and water to pilgrims expected to travel long distances to Namugongo, with pilgrims from Kasese set to begin their journey on May 16.
The telecommunications company also partnered with the diocese to launch a public fundraising campaign through MTN MoMo. Well-wishers can contribute using MoMo code 20308943, registered under the name “Kasese Diocese Namugongo Pilgrimage.”
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Tusubira said the contribution reflects MTN’s continued commitment to supporting faith-based initiatives and national unity.
“At MTN, we are inspired by the message that Christ lives in each of us, calling us to live in faith and service to others,” he said.
“Our contribution today reflects our continued commitment to walk alongside the faithful as they prepare for this deeply significant spiritual journey. We encourage all Ugandans to take part by supporting the Kasese Diocese through the MoMo code 20308943, so that together, we can bring this year’s theme to life through action and shared purpose.”
Bishop Kibira welcomed the support, describing it as timely as the diocese prepares to host thousands of pilgrims and worshippers during one of Uganda’s largest religious gatherings.
“We are deeply grateful to MTN Uganda for their generous contribution and continued partnership in supporting the Church and its mission,” Bishop Kibira said.
“As we prepare for the pilgrimage, with pilgrims setting off on May 16th, this support will greatly enhance our readiness for the Martyrs Day celebrations. We invite all people of goodwill to join us in this journey by contributing through the MoMo code 20308943.”
MTN Uganda said the contribution forms part of its broader support towards both the Catholic and Anglican Martyrs Day celebrations. The company added that it also plans to support Uganda Christian University, which will host this year’s Anglican commemorations.
Catholic Martyrs Day, observed annually on June 3, commemorates the 45 Christian converts who were killed between 1885 and 1887 on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II of Buganda for refusing to renounce their faith. The day attracts pilgrims from across Uganda and other parts of Africa to Namugongo.
