Kaliro, Uganda: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is set to preside over as chief pilgrim at this year’s St. Gonzaga Gonza Day national celebrations, scheduled for Sunday, July 6, 2025, at Bugonza Shrine in Kaliro District.
Haji Faruk Kirunda, Special Presidential Assistant on Press and Mobilization and Deputy Spokesperson, confirmed the President’s attendance, describing the occasion as a significant moment of unity and faith for Ugandans.
Organized annually in early July, the event commemorates the life and martyrdom of Gonzaga Gonza, one of Uganda’s most revered Catholic martyrs. This year’s celebrations will be hosted by the Jinja Catholic Diocese, with thousands of pilgrims expected from across the country.
Fr. Gerald Mutto, Chancellor of Jinja Diocese, assured believers that preparations were progressing smoothly to deliver a memorable commemoration. He said no COVID-19 testing would be required for pilgrims, further easing access for devotees traveling from distant regions.
During the ceremony, special prayers will be offered for Pope Leo XIV and in tribute to the late Pope Francis.
Who Was St. Gonzaga Gonza?
Born around 1862 in Busoga, Gonzaga Gonza was kidnapped as a child and raised in Buganda by Nkambo Buluusi. Remembered for his kindness, intelligence, and unwavering faith, he converted to Catholicism in 1885 while serving in King Muteesa’s palace.
On May 27, 1886, Gonzaga was martyred after volunteering to take the place of a falsely accused prisoner. He was tortured and forced to march in chains to Namugongo but remained resolute in his convictions. Today, he is venerated as the patron saint of prisoners, travelers, and the oppressed.
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