As Uganda prepares to commemorate Martyrs’ Day on June 3, government and religious leaders are intensifying efforts to position Namugongo as a year-round religious tourism destination.
The Uganda martyrs’ shrine for the Catholics and site for the Anglican continue to attract thousands of pilgrims and visitors from within and outside the country, making Namugongo one of Uganda’s most significant spiritual and historical sites.
The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities is working in close collaboration with shrine administrators to further develop infrastructure, enhance visitor experiences, and market Uganda’s rich religious heritage across East and Central Africa.
Vivian Lyazi, the Commissioner for Tourism, emphasized the national importance of the martyrdom sites:
“The story of the Uganda Martyrs is one of incredible faith, sacrifice, and resilience. It is a powerful narrative that we are proud to share with the world. We see Namugongo and related sites as key pillars in our strategy to grow religious tourism and attract both domestic and international visitors.”
Lyazi noted that the government also has plans to develop and promote other significant locations tied to the martyrs' journey, including Munyonyo, St. Balikuddembe’s site in Kampala, and the resting places of other martyrs along the route to Namugongo.
At the Anglican shrine, a museum dedicated to the Uganda Martyrs visually narrates their story, drawing in thousands of visitors including school groups, researchers, and tourists.
Administrator Enock Rukundo revealed plans to construct a seven-story building showcasing Uganda’s diverse cultures, further integrating education with heritage tourism.
Meanwhile, plans are also underway to construct a similar museum at the Namugongo Catholic Shrine, where Fr. Vincent Lubega says daily visits often number in the hundreds, especially during school seasons and major religious holidays.
Father Lubega, notes that “While many people come here to pray and honor the martyrs, we are also seeing a growing number of cultural tourists and learners. Our goal is to preserve the spiritual essence of Namugongo while also making it a place of education, history, and national pride.”
Entrance fees for students and adult visitors remain affordable between shs2,000 and shs 10,000 yet the shrines continue to record high footfall, especially from May through June and during Uganda’s international events, when visitors are often referred by host institutions.
With sustained efforts from both the government and religious institutions, Namugongo is well on its way to becoming not just a pilgrimage site but a cornerstone of Uganda’s tourism sector.