The Church of Uganda has barred pregnant women and the sick from participating in this year’s Martyrs Day pilgrimage to Namugongo, citing safety and health concerns ahead of the annual religious event.
The announcement was made by Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu while launching official preparations for the June 3 celebrations.
He said the measure is intended to protect vulnerable pilgrims from the physical toll of the often gruelling journey, which draws thousands from across Uganda and beyond.
Archbishop Kaziimba also cautioned believers against treating the pilgrimage as a recreational event. .
“This is a spiritual journey, not a time for partying or loitering,” he said, urging participants to preserve the sanctity of the site where 45 Christian converts were martyred between 1885 and 1887.
This year’s celebrations are being organised by a committee led by Health Minister Dr Jane Ruth Aceng and supported by bishops from six northern dioceses—West Lango, Lango, Madi West Nile, Kitgum, and Nebbi.
Over 400 choir members from these regions will take part through music, dance, and drama.
The main preacher for the 2025 commemoration will be retired Archbishop Henry Luke Orombi, returning to the national spotlight for what is expected to be one of the most significant homilies of the year.