Govt Allocates Shs400m for St Janani Luwum Day
As Uganda prepares to commemorate the 48th St. Janani Luwum Day, at least 300 foot pilgrims have set off on a faith-driven journey to Mucwini Sub-county in Kitgum District.
The event, which will take place on February 16, 2025, honors the martyrdom of Archbishop Janani Luwum, who was executed by President Idi Amin's regime for his outspoken opposition to human rights violations.
In recognition of this pivotal national observance, the government has allocated Shs 400 million to facilitate the pilgrims' journey and ensure the successful organization of the commemoration.
The theme for this year’s event, "Imitating God's goodness by doing good," calls on Ugandans to live lives of righteousness, justice, and selfless service, in honour of Luwum’s enduring legacy.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is expected to attend the commemoration, marking a significant day for the nation as it reflects on the life and sacrifice of a figure who is revered not only in Uganda but also across the globe.
Minister of State for Ethics and Integrity, Rose Lilly Akello, emphasized the importance of the commemoration, reminding Ugandans that Archbishop Luwum was executed alongside Charles Oboth Ofumbi, the Minister of Internal Affairs, and Erinayo Oryema, the Inspector General of Police.
Their collective sacrifice, Akello noted, is a stark reminder of the importance of standing up for justice, even in the face of extreme adversity.
“This allocation will ensure the successful facilitation of pilgrims and the organization of all necessary activities. It is important to remember that Archbishop Janani Luwum was not killed alone; he was executed alongside Hon. Charles Oboth Ofumbi and Erinayo Oryema. Their sacrifice reminds us of the importance of standing for justice, even in the face of adversity," Akello explained.
The pilgrimage, which began on February 9, 2025, features a structured route from Kitgum Diocese to Mucwini, where St. Janani Luwum is buried. The journey reflects deep spiritual devotion and serves as a living tribute to the Archbishop's courage and faith. A group of 60 pilgrims from Kitgum Diocese, led by Rt. Rev. Godfrey Loum, started the trek, passing through St. Philip’s Cathedral in Gulu before continuing on their path to Mucwini.
Rev. Canon William Ongeng, Provincial Secretary of the Church of Uganda, highlighted the significance of the pilgrimage: "Walking this pilgrimage is a demonstration of faith and commitment, reminding us of the sacrifices made by Archbishop Janani Luwum. His courage continues to inspire generations."
The grand commemorative service will take place at Wii-Gweng, the Mucwini ceremonial grounds, where the Archbishop is interred. The service will be led by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Reverend Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, with Rt Rev Associate Professor Sheldon Mwesigwa, Bishop of Ankole Diocese, serving as the guest preacher.
The event will also feature speeches from both religious and government leaders, reflecting on the Archbishop’s profound legacy of faith, courage, and standing for justice in the face of oppression.
This national commemoration serves as a powerful reminder of St. Janani Luwum’s enduring legacy, and the government’s dedication to preserving Uganda’s religious and historical heritage. It also serves to inspire future generations to uphold the values of justice, integrity, and faith that he so valiantly embodied.
