Namugongo Martyrs’ Shrine: A Memorial Site for Uganda Martyrs

Namugongo Martyrs’ Shrine is one of the most significant religious and historical tourism attractions in Uganda. Located in Wakiso District, near Kampala, this sacred site draws thousands of religious pilgrims and tourists every year, especially on June 3rd. This day marks the remembrance of the Uganda Martyrs who were executed under the orders of King Mwanga of Buganda between 1885 and 1887 due to their Christian faith. The shrine serves as a pilgrimage destination where believers, especially Catholics, come to pray and pay tribute to these martyrs. Many religious tourists embark on their journeys days or even weeks before the annual Martyrs’ Day, some traveling on foot from various parts of Uganda as well as neighboring countries like Kenya, Rwanda, and South Sudan.

The Uganda Martyrs were a group of 24 Christian converts, mainly young men, who were executed for their refusal to renounce their faith. Among them, 22 were Catholic and were later canonized by Pope Paul VI on October 18, 1964. Thirteen of these martyrs met their fate at Namugongo, where they were burned to death. The Anglican Church also recognizes 22 Anglican martyrs who were killed during the same period. During the canonization of the Catholic martyrs, Pope Paul VI acknowledged the sacrifice of the Anglican martyrs as well, stating, “And we do not wish to forget even the others who, belonging to the Anglican faith, met death for Christ’s sake.” This ecumenical recognition highlights the shrine’s importance not only for Catholics but for all Christians.

Historically, the Buganda Kingdom had a tradition of sending well-behaved and hardworking young boys to serve in the royal palace. It was considered a prestigious honor for families whose sons were chosen for this duty. However, between 1877 and 1879, Christian missionaries—both Anglican and Catholic—began spreading the gospel within the Buganda royal court. Kabaka Mutesa I, the father of King Mwanga, had initially welcomed these missionaries by extending an invitation in a letter dated April 14, 1875, which was later published in London on November 15, 1875.

However, King Mwanga, who succeeded Mutesa I, became increasingly hostile toward Christianity. The first martyr, Joseph Mukasa Balikuddembe, was executed on November 15, 1885, for opposing the king’s order to kill Anglican Bishop James Hannington, who had entered Buganda through Busoga. Mukasa also urged the king to abandon certain practices, including homosexuality, which angered Mwanga. In retaliation, the king ordered his execution.

The hostility toward Christianity escalated, and on May 25, 1886, King Mwanga commanded the arrest of all Christian believers within his court. Between May 26 and June 3 of that year, approximately 20 to 22 martyrs were executed, with some being burned alive at Namugongo. The brutal killings only strengthened the faith of the remaining Christians and led to increased missionary efforts in Uganda.

In memory of the Uganda Martyrs, Namugongo Shrine was established at the very site where many of them were burned to death. Over the years, it has become a major pilgrimage site, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the world. The shrine consists of a large basilica that symbolizes a traditional African hut, with artistic designs depicting the martyrs’ sacrifice. Every year on June 3rd, Christians gather here in large numbers to commemorate the martyrs’ faith and ultimate sacrifice. The celebrations include prayers, masses, processions, and cultural performances, making it a key religious tourism event in Uganda.

For tourists exploring Central Uganda, Namugongo Martyrs’ Shrine is a must-visit site. It offers a unique insight into Uganda’s religious history, the resilience of faith, and the cultural significance of the martyrs. Many visitors combine their trip to Namugongo with a one-day Kampala city tour, making it an accessible and enriching experience for both local and international travelers. As one of the most revered tourist sites in Uganda, the shrine continues to inspire generations of believers and remains a powerful symbol of faith and devotion.