KAMPALA, Uganda: 17 MAY 2026— President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has announced the postponement of this year’s Martyrs’ Day celebrations, citing a severe risk of Ebola transmission from neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The annual event, traditionally held on June 3rd at the Namugongo Martyrs Shrines, attracts millions of pilgrims from across East Africa and the globe.
According to an official statement issued by the President, the decision followed extensive consultations with religious leaders and the national epidemic response task force. The primary driver behind the postponement is the ongoing Ebola outbreak in Eastern Congo, a region that historically sends thousands of pilgrims to the Ugandan celebration.
”To safeguard everyone’s lives, it is essential that this important event be postponed,” President Museveni stated. “We regret any inconvenience caused, but the protection of life must come first.”
Key Directives from the President
In light of the sudden postponement, the government has issued the following directives to the public and prospective pilgrims:
Turn Back: Pilgrims who have already commenced their foot journeys to Namugongo are urged to halt their travels and return to their respective homes.
Maintain Vigilance: Citizens are reminded to strictly observe standard health and precautionary measures to prevent any potential spread of the virus.
Community Reporting: The public is encouraged to look out for one another by reporting any individuals showing signs of sickness to health authorities immediately.
Seek Medical Care: Anyone feeling unwell is strongly advised to seek prompt medical attention at the nearest health facility.
Uganda Martyrs’ Day commemorates the 45 Anglican and Catholic martyrs who were executed on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II of Buganda between 1885 and 1887. The event is a cornerstone of Uganda’s religious tourism, often seeing massive crowds camp out at the shrines weeks in advance.
While the suspension will undoubtedly disrupt businesses, transport sectors, and faith-based preparations, health officials have lauded the move as a necessary preemptive strike to keep the deadly hemorrhagic fever at bay.
The government has stated that a new date for the celebrations will be communicated in due course, pending further safety assessments from medical experts.
