WAKISO. Uganda Christian University (UCU) has undertaken major infrastructure upgrades at the Namugongo Anglican Martyrs site as preparations intensify for this year’s Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations. The annual celebrations fall on June 3.
The ongoing upgrades, focus largely on water supply, sanitation and crowd management. They are aimed at preventing disease outbreaks and improving the experience for thousands of pilgrims expected at the annual religious event.
A team from the private university, including senior administrators and members of the organising committee, on Thursday inspected ongoing works commissioned about a month ago.
UCU Vice Chancellor Aaron Mushengyezi said key developments include construction of a solar-powered borehole and installation of a 50,000-litre water storage tank to strengthen water supply at the site.
The new system will complement services from the National Water and Sewerage Corporation to ensure a steady supply during the celebrations.
Mushengyezi said the investment is expected to reduce pressure on water access, which has historically been strained during large pilgrimages.
Renovations also include repaired perimeter walls, upgraded washrooms and newly constructed sanitation facilities.
“Existing toilets have been modernised, while additional facilities have been built to handle the large crowds expected,” Mushengyezi said.
Other works include paving walkways and access roads, installation of solar-powered security lighting and improved signage. A digital billboard is also planned along the main road to relay proceedings during the celebrations.
The site’s museum has also been refurbished as part of efforts to improve the visitor experience.
Construction works are being implemented by contractors, including Masterline Housing and Allied Enterprises and Construction Limited, under the supervision of the university.
University officials said most of the work is expected to be completed by mid-May.
This year, the Church of Uganda entrusted UCU with organising the celebrations, a responsibility the university says it is using to upgrade one of the country’s most significant pilgrimage sites.
“Our desire is to replicate the standard of our campus here, so that pilgrims experience a well-maintained, state-of-the-art environment,” Mushengyezi said.
Preparations are estimated to cost about Shs4 billion, of which Shs3 billion has already been secured.
Mushengyezi thanked the government for its support and appealed to partners and well-wishers to help close the funding gap through financial contributions and in-kind support such as food, water and sanitation supplies.
Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration David Mugawe said the upgraded facilities are designed to manage large crowds while maintaining high standards of safety and quality.
Preparations are being coordinated by a central organising committee led by Reverend Professor John Kitayimbwa, supported by teams overseeing finance, publicity and logistics.
The transformation of the Namugongo Anglican site is expected to boost capacity, improve safety and strengthen its standing as one of Uganda’s leading faith-based tourism destinations.