Christians across Uganda, Africa, and beyond commemorated Uganda Martyrs’ Day virtually, with only 200 invited guests attending a scientific prayer service at the Anglican Martyrs’ Site in Namugongo due to Ebola prevention measures.

During the service, the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, called on Ugandans to reject tribal, religious, and political divisions and embrace unity as a foundation for national healing and development.

The scientific Martyrs’ Day prayers at the Uganda Martyrs’ Anglican Site in Namugongo were conducted under strict Ebola Standard Operating Procedures, with every attendee undergoing thorough health screening before accessing the venue.

Attendance was limited to 200 guests, while millions of Christians followed the service through television, radio, and online platforms.

The prayers, held at the Amphitheatre, began at 9:00 a.m. and were led by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu.

Preaching under the theme “Christ Our Peace: Breaking the Walls, Healing the Nation,” Archbishop Kaziimba urged Ugandans to overcome divisions based on tribe, religion, and politics and emulate the Uganda martyrs who stayed united despite their different religions.

The archbishop also commended the Government and the Ministry of Health for their efforts in containing the Ebola outbreak. He, however, called for greater investment in the health sector, including the implementation of a National Health Insurance Scheme. He called on parliament to look into coming up with a bill on the National Health Insurance Scheme.

He further cautioned against the misnaming of Namugongo as Nakiyanja, emphasising that the historic site should retain its original name because of its significance in the story of the Uganda Martyrs.

The Government was represented by the Minister for Public Service, Gen. Katumba Wamala, who said the sacrifice of the Uganda Martyrs should inspire Christians to dedicate time to God and serve their country faithfully.

Gen. Katumba challenged Ugandans to put aside their differences and work together for national transformation, in line with the President’s call for Kisanja No sleep and fighting Corruption.

He also applauded the Church of Uganda and Uganda Christian University for the improvements made at the Namugongo Martyrs’ Site, including infrastructure and museum developments.

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Uganda Christian University Governing Council and Bishop of Lango Diocese thanked the Church leadership for once again entrusting UCU with organising the celebrations and pledged to build on the achievements already made at the site.

This year’s scientific Martyrs’ Day celebrations concluded with a renewed call for unity, peace, and faith as Christians reflected on the sacrifice and witness of the Uganda Martyrs.