By Pr. Martin Ssempa
In all the rich and proud history of Buganda Kingdom handed down for over a century, there is no record of men marrying fellow men, or women marrying women. Such acts were considered foreign, uncivilized, and an abomination.
Uganda, both culturally and spiritually, has always resisted the practice of sodomy. It was never our
way of life. But in 1880s, this was disrupted. King Mwanga, under the influence of Arab slave
traders and their immoral indulgences, introduced a practice that was alien to the kingdom’s values.
He began to forcefully sodomize young pages in his court. These were boys—some barely in their teens—who had no choice but to obey the king’s command, however dehumanizing it was.
Over time, a few among them, deeply convicted by their faith and cultural heritage, began to resist. Led by Charles Lwanga, these young men took a bold and dangerous stand. They refused to be used as objects. They defied the King—not out of rebellion, but out of conviction.
King Mwanga, furious at their refusal, gave them an ultimatum: submit or die. They chose to die. And that is why, every June 3rd, Uganda honors the Uganda Martyrs—heroes who stood for what was right, pure, and dignified.
But amid the celebrations, we often gloss over the uncomfortable truth of why they were martyred. We celebrate their courage but avoid the context. We call them saints, but rarely speak of the specific evil they resisted. Why? Because it touches a sensitive nerve—it implicates the throne of a great
kingdom.
But we must learn to distinguish between the honor of an office and the failings of the individual who holds it. History must be told in full, especially when it carries lessons for our present and future.
Interestingly, Scottish missionary Alexander Mackay recorded a letter from King Mwanga in 1886, in which the king later expressed remorse after being exposed to the teachings of Jesus Christ. There is hope even in repentance. But that repentance must be accompanied by truth-telling.
Today, in an age when young people are being bombarded with pressure to conform to foreign sexual ideologies, the Uganda Martyrs stand as shining examples. Their story is more relevant now than ever. They chose conviction over convenience, integrity over survival.
Let the youth of today be able to echo the words of Esther: “If I perish, I perish.” Let them say, “I will not bow to pressure, I will not bend to dehumanizing acts, no matter the cost.”
To revive this conversation, I recently authored and launched a new book in April 2025 titled “WHY ARE YOU GEH?” This work goes deeper into the untold side of the Uganda Martyrs’ story, and highlights the broader struggle Africans have endured in resisting the vice of sodomy—a practice increasingly being imposed upon us under the guise of human rights. https://ankoletimes.co.ug/news/bugisus-future-in-focus-as-bamasaaba-diaspora-gathers-in-u-s-a-for-namca-convention/
If you desire to learn more about these brave young men, their faith, their stand, and what it means for us today, I invite you to get a copy of the book. Call 0772-641028 to order.
In addition, we have created new artwork re-imagining the Uganda Martyrs—not just as religious saints—but as icons of resistance against inhumane practices. I will be glad to share these with you, call me today 0772641028.
As Uganda commemorates this year’s Martyrs Day, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all Christians. May their legacy strengthen your faith. And may God give you the courage to stand—whatever storm you face.
Dr. Pr. Martin Ssempa is an Author, Speaker, Cultural and Family Advocate. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
