UGANDA: Kasese Diocese Launches Fundraising Drive for 2026 Uganda Martyrs Day
Masereka Peter
Rt. Rev. Francis Aquirinus Kibira Kambale, the Local Ordinary of the Diocese of Kasese, has called for an orderly, inclusive, and spiritually inspiring Uganda Martyrs Day celebration to be held next year and animated by his Diocese.
Bishop Kibira announced during a press conference shortly before a fundraising dinner at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala, officially launching the Diocese’s resource mobilization drive and calling for substantial spiritual and material support for the celebrations.
The Bishop said the celebrations next year should inspire families, especially young people, who seem to be losing hope of a productive life.
The 2026 event will be commemorated under the theme “Christ is alive in you and me.”
Bishop Kibira emphasized the urgency of securing funding, citing the extensive logistical, infrastructure, and organizational responsibilities involved in hosting the national event.
“We are humbled to once again lead the nation in commemorating the Uganda Martyrs. This opportunity strengthens our call for unity, continuous prayer, and peace across our country,” he said.
He also highlighted a partnership with a Christian group from the Democratic Republic of Congo as a symbol of regional solidarity.
Bishop Kibira said about thirty pilgrims from Germany are expected to join the Kasese Diocesan Choir as the Diocese animates the Uganda Martyrs’ Day national celebrations next year.
He further said that, as Uganda enjoys relative peace, Christians should continue to pray for political stability in other countries, such as the DR Congo.
Bishop Kibira appealed to corporate bodies, faith-based organizations, and individual well-wishers to support the fundraising drive, emphasizing that the success of the 2026 celebrations depends heavily on collective generosity.
Uganda Martyrs Day is one of the country’s most significant religious events, drawing millions of pilgrims from Uganda, the East African region, and beyond.
Kasese Diocese hopes that with adequate funding, the 2026 celebrations will be memorable, spiritually impactful, and a testament to national and regional unity.
Mr. John Makombo, the Central Committee Vice Chairperson in charge of the Central region, said the government is committed to supporting the function financially. Still, the Diocese of Kasese is responsible for meeting the budget.
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