First batch of 20 Pilgrims arrive at Namugongo

By Francis Jjunju

24^th May 2022

The first batch of pilgrims arrived at Namugongo catholic shrine nearly two weeks before the Martyrs day celebrations on 3rd June, the administration of the Catholic shrine has confirmed.

As of yesterday May 23^rd, at least 20 pilgrims from Western Uganda had arrived at Namugongo Martyrs Catholic shrine among them is 100-year old Bernardo Tibyangye from Bushenyi district.

Francis Muwonge, the Catholic Shrine Administrator has told Radio Sapientia that among the 20 pilgrims that have arrived at Namugongo, 17 are from Bushenyi and each of the other three is from Kabale, Isingiro and Mbarara.

He also says that they turned back some pilgrims last week who arrived before the renovation work which will cost at least 150 million shillings, that hadn’t reached a half of its implementation.

Muwonge further says that they expect to receive more pilgrims from Tororo, Mbale and Kenya on May 30^th and others from different parts of the country and the neighboring countries.

The renovation team believes that by Thursday this week, they will be completing the renovation exercise including fixing broken water pipes, wires, and speakers, trimming of trees and cleaning the pavilions.

Meanwhile, over 500 foot pilgrims from Fort Portal who are hosting the celebrations have embarked on their journey.