The Ugandan government has decided to invest in various religious pilgrimage sites across the country as part of efforts to promote faith-based tourism.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja announced the development while addressing pilgrims at Kooki Haibaale Martyrs Shrine in Kakumiro District, the birthplace of St. Andrea Kaahwa. She noted that President Yoweri Museveni instructed her to work closely with several key ministries including those of Gender, Labour and Social Development; Finance, Planning and Economic Development; Internal Affairs; Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities; and Local Government to secure funding for upgrading these religious sites.
“This initiative aims to elevate religious tourism and foster development in the areas surrounding these shrines,” Nabbanja stated.
She highlighted that although the government has traditionally supported Namugongo shrine, it is now extending assistance to other lesser-known but equally significant pilgrimage destinations across Uganda.
Each year on June 3rd, the global Christian community commemorates Uganda Martyrs Day in honor of the young men who were executed by fire under the orders of Kabaka Mwanga of Buganda. While Namugongo remains the central venue for these celebrations, on May 26th annually, multitudes from Bunyoro and neighboring regions make a spiritual journey to Kooki Haibaale in Kakumiro District to honor St. Andrea Kaahwa.
St. Andrea Kaahwa, one of the Uganda Martyrs, was martyred in Munyonyo, Kampala. This year’s commemorative mass was celebrated by the Bishop of Hoima Diocese, Rt. Rev. Vincent Kirabo Amooti, and Bishop Robert Muhiirwa Akiiki of Fort Portal Diocese.
In his sermon, Bishop Muhiirwa called on the faithful to emulate St. Andrea Kaahwa by embracing humility, loving their faith, and showing compassion to one another emphasizing that love is the highest divine command.
“Dear pilgrims, follow the life example of St. Andrea Kaahwa, patron of Catechists, Educators, and Families. Practice humility and extend love to each other,” urged Muhiirwa.
Bishop Kirabo encouraged the faithful to walk in mercy and remain spiritually grounded in Christ’s love.
“Seek God’s mercy through your pilgrimage, and trust in the divine guidance of angels. Just as God led Moses and the Israelites to the Promised Land, may He hear your prayers and reward your intentions. Let St. Andrea Kaahwa always be your advocate,” he added.
Some cultural leaders from Bunyoro urged the Catholic Church to use St. Andrea Kaahwa’s original Runyoro name instead of the Luganda version, Andrew Kaggwa.
Dr. Kasirivu Atwooki, a former State Minister and ex-MP for Bugangaizi West, appealed to the Church to consistently refer to the saint by his authentic name, Andrea Kaahwa, to preserve cultural identity.
The Prime Minister also pledged that the government would pave the road leading to the shrine, enhancing accessibility for pilgrims.
As part of her support, Nabbanja donated UGX 10 million toward the shrine’s development. Several other guests also contributed to the initiative.
