Speaking at a press briefing at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala, the Provincial Secretary of the Church of Uganda, Rev. Canon William Ongeng, confirmed that this year’s event has attracted a significant number of foot pilgrims from across the country.
“The pilgrimage is an expression of faith and devotion to Archbishop Luwum’s legacy. Pilgrims have been trekking through various locations, including Cwero, Atanga, Acholibur, and Kitgum Town Parish, before concluding their journey at Wii-Gweng,” said Canon Ongeng.
The Minister of State for Ethics and Integrity, Rose Lilly Akello, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the Church in organising the event and revealed plans to develop Mucwini into a modern religious tourism site to honor Archbishop Luwum’s legacy.
“As part of the buildup to the main event, several community activities have been organised, including a football competition among youth at the Archdeaconry level, with the finals set for Friday. There will also be an open-air crusade featuring praise and worship performances,” Hon. Akello announced.
The commemoration will be led by Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, while the Rt. Rev. Assoc. Prof. Sheldon Mwesigwa, Bishop of Ankole Diocese, will deliver the sermon. A 540-member choir, representing dioceses across Northern Uganda, will lead the worship.
President Yoweri Museveni is expected to preside over the commemoration as the Chief Guest.
Themed “Imitating God’s Goodness by Doing Good” (Galatians 6:9), the event will honor the life and sacrifice of Archbishop Janani Luwum, who was executed on February 16, 1977, under the regime of President Idi Amin.
Among the notable pilgrims is Mzee Musolini from Namirembe, who, alongside six others, has retraced the route taken when Archbishop Luwum’s remains were mistakenly transported to Madi Opei before being returned to Mucwini for burial.
Church leaders and government officials have urged Ugandans to reflect on Luwum’s legacy of faith and resistance against oppression, which continues to inspire many today.