Mayuge – Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Stephen Kazimba Mugalu, has voiced frustration over delays in establishing October 29 as a public holiday to commemorate Bishop James Hannington.
Bishop Hannington was martyred in 1885 on orders from the cultural leader Luba, and his legacy is honored annually in Kyando, Bukatuube sub-county, Mayuge district.
The recent commemoration drew clergy from across Busoga and beyond, with prominent bishops in attendance, including Rt Rev Samson Naimanhe Mukembo, Rt Rev Patrick Wakula, and Rt Rev Hannington Paul Suubi.
Bishop Suubi encouraged attendees to draw inspiration from Hannington's steadfast faith.
Busoga Kingdom tourism minister Hellen Namutamba, representing Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, announced a government allocation of Shs 100 million for annual celebrations of each Ugandan martyr.
Namutamba also shared that President Yoweri Museveni had commissioned her to meet Hannington’s family in England, which took place in September.
"The family has agreed to visit Uganda next year to discuss the holiday’s potential status," she confirmed.
Archbishop Kazimba noted that resistance within the cabinet has contributed to the delay, complicating President Museveni’s decision.
His remarks underscored the importance of recognizing Hannington’s sacrifice and preserving his legacy in Uganda’s history.