Uganda Postpones Martyrs' Day Over Ebola Fears

Uganda has decided to postpone the annual Martyrs’ Day celebrations, a significant national and religious event scheduled for June 3rd. This decision comes as a precautionary measure due to concerns over the Ebola outbreak in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

President Yoweri Museveni, in consultation with the National Epidemic Response Task Force and religious leaders, made the call to delay the event. The primary reason for the postponement is the potential public health risk posed by the large number of pilgrims who typically travel to Uganda, including many from areas affected by the Ebola outbreak.

“To safeguard everyone’s lives, it is essential that this important event be postponed,” stated President Museveni. He emphasized that the protection of life is the government’s top priority. Pilgrims who had already started their journey are advised to return home safely and remain vigilant, reporting any signs of illness and seeking medical attention if needed.

The government expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to religious communities and pilgrims but reiterated that public safety must take precedence. Martyrs’ Day commemorates 45 Christian converts executed in the late 19th century and usually draws thousands of participants to the Namugongo shrines.

Source: State House Uganda