As Uganda prepares for one of its biggest religious events, MTN Uganda has stepped forward to support the Lugazi Catholic Diocese with a generous donation ahead of the 2025 Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations. The telecom giant handed over Shs15 million in cash, 500 reflector jackets, and bottled water to help ensure the safety and comfort of thousands of pilgrims expected to trek to Namugongo shrine on June 3.

The donation was officially received by Monsignor Dr. Richard Kayondo, the Vicar General of Lugazi Diocese, who expressed deep appreciation for MTN’s timely contribution. With multiple committees working round the clock to organize the massive event, Dr. Kayondo noted that such support makes a significant difference in their preparations. “Water and reflector jackets are particularly important for foot pilgrims who endure long journeys under intense heat,” he explained. “These reflectors will help prevent accidents, especially at night when visibility is poor.”

Dr. Kayondo revealed that Lugazi Diocese anticipates hosting over 20,000 pilgrims for this year’s celebrations. While grateful for MTN’s donation, he appealed for more reflector jackets to adequately protect all pilgrims. He also called upon other organizations and well-wishers to come forward with additional support, emphasizing that more resources are needed to make the event truly successful.

Ronald Ddamulira, MTN Uganda’s Regional Business Manager for East and Central regions, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility. “Our contribution of Shs15 million, bottled water, and 500 reflector jackets aims to enhance pilgrim safety during their journey,” Ddamulira stated. He highlighted that the reflector jackets would significantly improve visibility along busy roads, reducing the risk of accidents for those walking at night.

To make donating easier, MTN has introduced a special MoMo Pay code dedicated to the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations. This innovation allows well-wishers across the country to contribute funds conveniently through mobile money. Ddamulira added that MTN’s support would extend beyond Lugazi, with the company providing services along all major pilgrimage routes to Namugongo.

This year holds special significance as the Lugazi Catholic Diocese has been given the sole responsibility of organizing the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations. The annual event commemorates the sacrifice of 45 Christian converts who were executed between 1885 and 1887 on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II of Buganda for refusing to renounce their faith. Over the years, it has grown into a major religious gathering that attracts pilgrims from across Uganda, neighboring countries, and beyond.

Preparations for the event typically involve massive logistical arrangements, including security, sanitation, medical services, and crowd control. The journey to Namugongo is particularly challenging for foot pilgrims, many of whom walk for days from various parts of the country. Along the way, they face numerous risks including traffic accidents, dehydration, and exhaustion. MTN’s donation directly addresses some of these challenges by providing essential safety gear and hydration.

The reflector jackets will help protect pilgrims who often walk along busy highways in the early morning or late evening hours when visibility is low. The bottled water will help prevent dehydration during the hot June weather, while the financial contribution will support other critical aspects of the event’s organization.

MTN’s involvement continues its tradition of supporting major national events and community initiatives. The telecom company has consistently demonstrated commitment to Uganda’s social and religious activities, understanding their importance in national unity and cultural preservation. Their latest contribution to the Uganda Martyrs Day preparations reinforces this commitment while setting an example for other corporate entities to follow.

As the countdown to June 3 begins, the Lugazi Diocese continues to mobilize resources and finalize arrangements for the historic event. The Uganda Martyrs Day celebration not only serves as a religious observance but also stands as a powerful symbol of faith and resilience that continues to inspire millions. With support from partners like MTN Uganda, the diocese moves closer to ensuring a safe, memorable, and spiritually fulfilling experience for all pilgrims making the journey to Namugongo.

The collaboration between corporate entities and religious institutions showcased in this initiative highlights how strategic partnerships can enhance major national events. As more organizations heed Dr. Kayondo’s call for support, the 2025 Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations promise to be one of the most successful in recent history, honoring the martyrs’ legacy while protecting and celebrating the faithful who make the pilgrimage each year.