By BM
After nearly two decades, the Diocese of Kasese is preparing to reclaim the national spotlight as it takes on the responsibility of leading the 2026 Uganda Martyrs’ Day celebrations at Namugongo.
This marks the first time since 2005 that the Diocese will animate the national pilgrimage, a role last held during the tenure of Rt. Rev. Egidio Nkaijanabwo.
The announcement was made official with the inauguration of a 13-member central organizing committee, unveiled by the Vicar General of the Diocese, Msgr. Landaus Bwambale, on behalf of Bishop Francis Aquirinus Kibira Kambale.
The ceremony, held at the Bishop’s Hall in Kasese Municipality, was filled with a sense of renewed purpose and anticipation, as Church leaders called on both the faithful and civic stakeholders to rally behind the preparations.
Msgr. Landaus emphasized the importance of collective effort both spiritual and material to ensure the event reflects not only the strength of the Diocese’s faith but also its capacity for leadership on a national platform.
He underscored that animating the Martyrs’ Day is a sacred duty, but also a unique opportunity for Kasese to showcase its unity, culture, and commitment to the Church.
Appointed as chairperson of the organizing committee, Rev. Fr. John Baptist Kule expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and his team.
He noted that with unity, prayer, and support from across all sectors religious, political, and civil the Diocese can deliver a memorable and spiritually enriching celebration.
Fr. Kule also pointed out that the event carries not only religious significance but also regional importance, as it draws attention to Kasese and opens opportunities for development and visibility.
The Uganda Martyrs’ Day celebrations are held annually on June 3rd in Namugongo and rotate among the four ecclesiastical provinces of Uganda: Kampala, Tororo, Gulu, and Mbarara.
Kasese Diocese, under the Mbarara province, will follow Lugazi Diocese, which led this year’s celebrations.
As preparations begin in earnest, the mood in Kasese is one of excitement and commitment.
The Diocese sees this as more than just a celebration it is a moment of revival, pride, and spiritual renewal.
The organizing committee, now in place, is expected to coordinate all aspects of planning and mobilization in the lead-up to 2026, working closely with local communities and Church institutions to make the celebration not only colorful but deeply meaningful.
The full committee features a diverse group of religious and lay leaders, including:
Rev. Fr. Anyasio Mbusa – Director, Caritas Kasese
Fr. Joseph Syathetha – Diocesan Treasurer
Fr. Sunday Godfrey– Pastoral Coordinator
Fr. Cosmas Asaba, Fr. Julius Bwambale
Sr. Sarah Muhindo– Director, Kasese Guide Radio
Mr. George Mayingya – Diocesan Head of Laity
Ms. Queen Gonda Asiimwe, among others.
As preparations begin, there is growing excitement across the Diocese, with many faithful seeing this as a moment of grace, pride, and renewed unity for Kasese.
