By Obed Kithende
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Kasese has unveiled an innovative environmental campaign aimed at blending faith with ecological responsibility ahead of the 2026 Uganda Martyrs’ Day celebrations at Namugongo Martyrs’ Shrine.
Dubbed the Uganda Martyrs’ Memorial Forest, the initiative was launched by the Bishop of Kasese, Francis Acquirinus Kibira, who described it as both a spiritual and environmental milestone.
The bishop said the campaign is a deliberate act of faith and stewardship, inspired by the Church’s teaching on care for creation.
Under the initiative, Christians across the diocese are being encouraged to plant trees in their homes and parishes, while pilgrims travelling on foot to Namugongo will take part in a “green pilgrimage.”
Pilgrims are expected to plant trees at various stopover points along their journey, turning the route into a living memorial.
Observed every June 3, Uganda Martyrs’ Day attracts millions of pilgrims from across the world. This year’s celebrations are expected to carry a strong message on environmental conservation, aligning spiritual devotion with sustainable action.
