The Government of Uganda has announced the postponement of this year’s Martyrs’ Day celebrations due to growing concerns over the Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Martyrs’ Day, held every June 3, is one of Uganda’s most important religious and national events, honoring 45 Christian converts who were executed between 1885 and 1887 under Kabaka Mwanga II.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, after consulting with the National Epidemic Response Task Force and religious leaders, explained that the decision was necessary to protect lives. The annual gathering attracts thousands of pilgrims, including many from eastern DRC, where Ebola cases have been reported. This makes the event a potential risk for spreading the deadly virus.
“After consultations with the national epidemic response task force and religious leaders, we have decided to postpone Martyrs’ Day to a later date, which will be communicated,” President Museveni said. He emphasized that protecting life must remain the top priority, urging citizens to follow preventive measures while the government monitors the situation closely.
The President also advised pilgrims who had already started their journey to return home safely, remain vigilant, and report anyone showing symptoms of illness. “I encourage those who had begun their journey to return home, continue observing the precautionary measures, report anyone who is sick, and encourage those who are ill to seek medical care,” he said.
While expressing regret over the inconvenience caused to religious communities and pilgrims, President Museveni reiterated that public safety cannot be compromised. Martyrs’ Day is not only a solemn religious observance but also one of the largest faith gatherings in Africa, making careful monitoring crucial to prevent potential health risks.
