President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reaffirmed Uganda’s unwavering commitment to religious freedom, national unity, and ideological clarity as essential pillars for sustainable development.
He made these remarks during the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations held at Namugongo on June 3rd.
Addressing a vibrant congregation of both local and international pilgrims, President Museveni commended Ugandans for upholding the spirit of unity and tolerance exemplified by the Uganda Martyrs.
He said the annual celebration serves not only as a tribute to the young Ugandans who made the ultimate sacrifice for their faith but also as a national symbol of respect for freedom of worship.
“The bravery and sacrifice of the Uganda Martyrs are central to our spiritual heritage and should inspire present and future generations to defend freedom of conscience and belief,” the President stated.
President Museveni highlighted the deep historical roots of religion in Uganda, noting its evolution through cultural integration, spiritual conviction and courage.
He recounted the introduction of Islam in 1841 by Ahmad bin Ibrahim, followed by Anglican missionaries in 1877 and Catholic missionaries in 1879 developments that expanded Uganda’s religious landscape.
Before the advent of these foreign religions, the President noted, Ugandans practiced indigenous spiritual systems centered on ancestral worship and clan traditions. The integration of these belief systems marked a transformative period in the country’s spiritual and social history.
Emphasizing the need to distinguish between religion and governance, Museveni quoted Mark 12:17: “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.” He underlined that while religion provides moral guidance, governance must deliver socio-economic transformation.
He cautioned against using religion or tribal identities for political mobilization, warning that such practices threaten national unity and hinder development.
Reiterating the ideological foundation of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), the President said Uganda’s transformation hinges on wealth creation, peace, and strategic security.
He emphasized the importance of broader markets, advocating for national and continental economic integration under a Pan-African vision.
“No tribe or religion can provide a sufficient market for your surplus goods,” Museveni asserted. “We must build national unity and a pan-African market to guarantee prosperity for all.”
To illustrate the values of compassion and tolerance, he cited the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30–35), urging Ugandans to look beyond religious differences in service to humanity. Recalling his experiences during the liberation struggle, Museveni said he had worked closely with people of all faiths, united by a common purpose.
He also acknowledged the critical role of religious institutions in national development, highlighting ongoing government support through the national budget for the efforts of Catholic, Protestant, and Muslim communities.
He pledged to continue strengthening this support in recognition of their contribution to Uganda’s moral and social fabric.
President Museveni expressed satisfaction with the wide participation of believers from diverse denominations, describing it as a reflection of Uganda’s spirit of religious harmony.
“It is a joy to see Ugandans, regardless of their faith, gathered in unity and prayer. This is the Uganda we must protect and nurture,” he said.
Reflecting on the significance of Martyrs Day, Museveni described the public holiday as a national statement against religious intolerance and sectarianism, a day that affirms spiritual freedom and unity.
“Religion must never divide us,” he concluded. “It must guide our hearts to love one another as we build a prosperous nation together.”
The celebrations drew high-ranking religious leaders, government officials, foreign dignitaries, and thousands of pilgrims from across Uganda and the region.
The event featured spiritual reflections, traditional and contemporary hymns, and collective calls for faith, peace, and national development.
