Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has announced a contribution of Shs1.3 billion to the Nebbi Catholic Diocese in preparation for this year’s Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations.
This marks the second time Nebbi Diocese will lead the prayers in Namugongo, following their previous leadership in 2007.
The annual event pays homage to the 22 Catholic and 23 Anglican martyrs, who were executed for their faith on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga of Buganda Kingdom between 1885 and 1887.
Rt. Rev. Raphael Wokorach, Archbishop-elect of the Gulu Archdiocese and Apostolic Bishop of Nebbi Diocese led the religious delegation to meet President Museveni, where they were introduced by Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, the State Minister for Education and Sports in charge of Primary Education at State House-Entebbe.
The Rt. Rev. Wokorach emphasised the significance of this year’s celebrations, coinciding with the diamond jubilee since the canonization of the 22 Uganda martyrs, saints revered by the Church.
The Rt. Rev. Wokorach also highlighted the challenges faced in organising such an event, stressing the need for financial support to ensure its success.
He acknowledged the efforts made by the diocese in raising funds but appealed for additional assistance to meet the Shs1.3 billion budget, a request which was granted by the President.
“We made a budget and engaged our people to raise the money to make sure the preparations are smooth. Up to now, we have raised Shs 500 million for additional preparatory needs, but the budget goes up to Shs1.3 billion. That is where we have expressed our desire to ask for your support to ensure these celebrations are held at a level that is respected internationally,” he said.
President Museveni also provided valuable insights into agricultural practices, specifically addressing the issue of extensive agriculture in the West Nile region.
He advised the community to transition to intensive agriculture, emphasising the importance of maximising productivity on limited land. Furthermore, President Kampala, Uganda I HABARI DAILY I Museveni also promised to provide six tractors to enhance agricultural productivity and pledged to address infrastructure challenges, such as the construction of the Nebbi-Goli road.
“We had our plans, but we got diverted by the problems we had, including locusts, floods, and COVID. However, it’s good that we survived, and that’s why we had to hold onto many projects,” reassured the President.
