President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called for the transformation of Bugonza Shrine in Kaliro District, along with other Uganda Martyrs’ birthplaces, into major religious tourism destinations.
Speaking as Chief Pilgrim during the national celebrations of St. Gonzaga Gonza Day at Bugonza Shrine on Sunday, President Museveni reaffirmed government commitment to supporting Uganda Martyrs Day commemorations and emphasized the need to develop key historical sites such as Bugonza and Kyebando, the birthplaces of St. Gonzaga Gonza and St. Matia Mulumba, respectively.
“Developing these sites will be done. They capture the sentiment of our people,” the President said.
During the event, President Museveni made several pledges to support the Church and the community, including:
- Shs950 million to complete Iganga Minor Seminary
- Shs300 million to the Jinja Diocese priests’ SACCO
- Shs300 million to complete a commercial building in Kamuli
- Full government funding to complete Uganda Martyrs Hospital, Jinja
- A tractor for Jinja Diocese agriculture
Additional medical support for Bishop Charles Martin Wamika
President Museveni also urged Christians to embrace the Parish Development Model as a tool to fight poverty, explaining that each parish receives Shs100 million annually to empower communities and improve livelihoods.
The celebrations honored St. Gonzaga Gonza, who was martyred at the age of 24 for his unwavering faith. In his message, Bishop Charles Martin Wamika emphasized the importance of wealth creation as a component of the Church’s mission to transform lives.
“Preaching to people with empty stomachs is a waste of time,” the bishop stated.
First Deputy Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, who also attended the event, congratulated President Museveni on his nomination as the NRM National Chairperson and presidential flag bearer. She further called for greater recognition and development of all Uganda Martyrs’ sites across the country.
