The first group of pilgrims has arrived at Namugongo catholic martyrs shrine. The group of fourteen pilgrims that walked from Bushenyi district arrived yesterday and was led by an 89 year old man.
The Protector of the Devotion to the Uganda martyrs Father Joseph Mukasa Muwonge says they are also in touch with a group of 300 pilgrims walking from Lira district, those from Kenya, Western Uganda and other regions.
Father Muwonge says preparations are so far moving on smoothly and this year’s celebrations will be led by Lira diocese under the theme “called to be witnesses in the family and society”
Police has also drafted a new set of guidelines that will govern pilgrims at en-route to Namugongo for this year’s Uganda Martyrs celebrations.
Under these guidelines, all vehicle owners or drivers of both private and public vehicles will have to stop 6km from the venue and the occupants will have to walk the remaining distance.
According to the police operation’s commander Andrew Felix Kaweesi, only VIP vehicles will be allowed to park in designated places near the venue.
He says the move is primarily intended to ensure that pilgrims and worshipers are safe.