The government of Uganda contributed shs4.2 billion to support preparations for this year’s Martyrs’ Day celebrations at Namugongo.
According to President Yoweri Museveni, shs2 billion was allocated to the Catholic Church and shs2 billion to the Anglican Church plus shs200 million to the Moslems.
President Museveni directed that this contribution be made a permanent feature in the national budget to ensure better preparations, citing the overwhelming number of pilgrims who attend the annual event.
“This year, the government gave Catholics shs2 billion, the Protestants shs 2 billion and Moslems shs200 million for this occasion. I have directed the government to make this contribution part of the government budget annually since many Ugandans participate,” President Museveni said.
While addressing the congregation at the Anglican site in Nakiyanja, Namugongo where he was the guest of honour, President Museveni cautioned Ugandans against mixing politics with denominational loyalties.
He made a clear distinction between spiritual faith and political engagement.
“Politics is about our welfare on earth and religion is about spirituality here on earth and life after in heaven, which aspect the religious leaders can speak about better,” he said.
He further called on religious leaders to focus on matters of faith, leaving the stewardship of national welfare to political leaders.
President Museveni was accompanied by the First Lady, Janet Museveni, at the event.
The service was presided over by Bishop Emeritus Luke Orombi from Nebbi Diocese, who also called on Ugandans to avoid politics of violence as the country prepares for the 2026 general elections.
Similarly, Archbishop Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu echoed the call for peaceful political engagement, urging Ugandans to shun violence during the upcoming elections.
