Uganda Martyrs Parish, Munyonyo, this week celebrated its 9th anniversary since its inauguration in 2016. The parish was officially inaugurated on 23rd October 2016 by the late Archbishop of Kampala, His Grace Dr Cyprian Kizito Lwanga, becoming the 64th Catholic parish in the Kampala Archdiocese.

Although the actual anniversary date fell on Thursday, the celebrations were held on Friday, 24th October 2025, beginning with a thanksgiving Mass led by the Parish Priest, Fr. Male, in the Basilica. 

In his homily, Fr. Male highlighted the tremendous milestones achieved by the parish over the past nine years, including the construction of the Uganda Martyrs Basilica and the Divine Mercy Chapel, among other significant faith-based developments.

He also noted the remarkable spiritual growth witnessed not only among parishioners but also among pilgrims who visit the Shrine from different parts of the world.
“This being the Jubilee Year of Hope, Munyonyo is one of the places designated by the Archbishop of Kampala as a pilgrimage site where the faithful can visit and receive indulgences. This further fosters the spiritual growth of our parishioners and the pilgrims who visit the parish,” Fr. Male said.

After Mass, parishioners and members of the Franciscan Community, who oversee the parish, gathered in the church parking lot for a communal meal and fellowship.

As has become tradition over the years, four parishioners were recognised for their exceptional service to the parish and awarded certificates of appreciation.

The 2025 awardees included:

Ms Olivia Nakabugo, for tending the parish flower gardens and maintaining the Grotto of Mother Mary;

Mr Robert Kakooza, for his commitment to liturgical service.

Ms Justine Namono, Head Teacher of Our Lady of Angels Kindergarten, the parish school,

Ms Cissy Adoch, the Parish Secretary.

The practice of honouring outstanding parishioners began in 2019, and the following have since received this recognition: