With just few days left to Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations, authorities have called for utmost discipline and patience from road users to safeguard lives as thousands of pilgrims from within and outside the country walk to Namugongo.
This year’s Martyrs Day celebrations, scheduled for June 3, are being organized by the Northern Uganda dioceses under the theme: Imitating God’s goodness by doing good.
Former Chief Political Commissar at Uganda Police, Assistant Inspector General of Police Asan Kasingye, emphasized the need for vigilance along major highways and feeder roads being used by pilgrims.
He urged motorists to drive safely and be considerate to all road users.
“Let’s all remember that pilgrims to Namugongo are walking on all major roads. Please, kindly drive safely. Reduce speed. Be considerate to all road users,” AIGP (Rtd) Kasingye said on X.
“These pilgrims are our parents, brothers, sisters in Christ. Don’t kill or injure any through reckless driving,” he added.
The Uganda Police Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, SP Michael Kananura reaffirmed commitment to ensuring safe passage for pilgrims.
According to Kananura, several police units have been deployed to escort the foot pilgrims and monitor their progress across various routes.
“So far, so good, pilgrims from various parts of the country are making their way to Namugongo and they are being escorted to ensure their safety on the road,” Kananura stated.
“We are doing our part; we urge you to do yours as well, we continue to appeal to all motorists to exhibit the utmost discipline on the road. Please observe all traffic rules to safeguard the lives of the pilgrims and all other road users,” he said.
As the pilgrims continue their journey through long distances, exhaustion, and changing weather, calls for road discipline and public empathy remain critical.
