By Nathan Eyagu 

The Government of Uganda has postponed this year’s Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations due to growing concerns over the Ebola outbreak in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The announcement was made by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni after consultations with the national epidemic response task force and religious leaders.

According to the President, Uganda hosts thousands of pilgrims every year, many of whom travel from neighboring countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo, where cases of Ebola have recently been reported. The government said postponing the event was a necessary precaution aimed at protecting lives and preventing the possible spread of the deadly virus.

“This decision was made because Uganda receives thousands of pilgrims annually from Eastern Congo, which is currently experiencing an Ebola outbreak. To safeguard everyone’s lives, it is essential that this important event be postponed,” the President stated.

Pilgrims who had already started their journey to Namugongo Martyrs Shrine have been advised to return home and continue observing health guidelines issued by authorities. The President also urged the public to remain vigilant, report anyone showing signs of illness, and encourage those who are sick to seek immediate medical attention.

Uganda Martyrs’ Day is celebrated every year on June 3rd in remembrance of 45 Christian converts who were executed between 1885 and 1887 for refusing to renounce their faith during the reign of Kabaka Mwanga II of Buganda. The annual commemoration attracts pilgrims from more than 20 countries across Africa and beyond, making it one of the largest religious gatherings on the continent.

Many believers travel long distances on foot to participate in prayers, thanksgiving, and spiritual reflection at Namugongo, the site where several of the martyrs were killed.

Government officials and religious leaders are expected to announce a new date for the celebrations once the Ebola situation is brought under control.

The government has assured the public that the postponement is purely a health and safety measure intended to protect Ugandans and international visitors alike.