Namugongo has turned into a security fortress as President Yoweri Museveni prepares to attend today’s Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations at the Anglican shrine. With an estimated three million pilgrims descending on the holy sites, security forces have locked down the area in one of the largest protection operations seen in recent years.

The Special Forces Command (SFC) has taken charge of all access points to both the Catholic and Anglican shrines, setting up strict checkpoints that have left even some police vehicles turned away. At Kyaliwajala junction, the last stopping point for unauthorized vehicles heading to the Anglican shrine, armed SFC officers stand guard, carefully screening all movement toward the venue where the President will preside over today’s events.

Police spokesperson Fred Enanga explained the heightened measures: “We have deployed all available units – ground patrols, canine teams, and aerial surveillance – to ensure everyone’s safety.” The security blanket covers not just the shrines but all approaches to Namugongo, with pilgrims undergoing multiple checks before reaching the celebration grounds.

This year’s celebrations mark one of the biggest turnouts in memory, with faithful traveling from across East Africa to honor the 45 Christian converts executed between 1885 and 1887 by Kabaka Mwanga II. Many pilgrims walked for weeks to reach Namugongo, their journeys reflecting the deep devotion surrounding Martyrs Day.

Despite the tight security, the atmosphere remains festive. At the Catholic shrine, pilgrims sang and danced through the night, while others prayed quietly at the martyr’s lake. “We understand the security needs but our focus remains on honoring the martyrs,” said Rev. Father Joseph Mukasa, one of the event organizers.

The government’s heavy security presence reflects both the event’s importance and recent security concerns. Last year’s foiled terror plot near the celebrations remains fresh in memory, prompting this year’s unprecedented measures. All bags entering the shrines undergo thorough checks, with police sniffer dogs working alongside uniformed and plainclothes officers.

President Museveni’s attendance at the Anglican shrine has particularly raised the security stakes, with the SFC creating special protection corridors. Several cabinet ministers and foreign dignitaries are also expected, adding to the security challenge. Traffic police have diverted all non-essential vehicles from major routes to Namugongo, creating special lanes for emergency access.

The celebrations carry special significance this year under the theme of unity and faith. At both shrines, pilgrims from different denominations have been praying together, embodying the martyrs’ legacy of religious tolerance. “These martyrs died for their belief in God, not for being Catholic or Anglican,” remarked Anglican Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba during early morning prayers.

As the day progresses, security teams remain on high alert, monitoring the massive crowds through surveillance cameras and foot patrols. Medical teams stand ready at multiple points, prepared to handle everything from minor injuries to potential emergencies in the packed venues.

For pilgrims, the security measures provide reassurance. “We feel safe to worship knowing our leaders have taken our protection seriously,” said Grace Nalwoga, who traveled from Masaka with her parish group. With the main celebrations yet to begin, Namugongo stands ready to host one of Africa’s largest religious gatherings – protected by one of Uganda’s most comprehensive security operations.