After 14 long and difficult days, the pilgrims from Nebbi Catholic Diocese finally arrived at the Catholic Martyrs Shrine in Namugongo, Wakiso district. Their arrival was marked by scenes of joy, dancing, and cheers.
The Journey
The pilgrimage was not easy. The pilgrims walked over 300 kilometers from Nebbi to Namugongo. Their journey took them through two sub-regions, Bunyoro and West Nile, and they passed through five districts: Pakwach, Kiryandongo, Nakasongola, Luwero, and Kampala. They began their journey on Wednesday, May 15, and their hard work and determination were evident as they reached their destination.
Warm Welcome
When the pilgrims arrived, they were greeted warmly. Rev. Fr. Vincent Lubega, the Rector of Namugongo Martyrs Shrine, welcomed Archbishop-elect of Gulu Ecclesiastical Province and Bishop of Nebbi, Raphael P’Mony Wokorach, who led the pilgrims. Also present was the Bishop of Lira Catholic Diocese, Rt. Rev. Santos Lino Wanok.
Final Stretch
On the morning of Wednesday at 10:00 am, the Nebbi pilgrims left Naguru Catholic Church, where they had spent the night, and started the final part of their journey to Namugongo. They were accompanied by a brass band and were joined by government officials and other supporters. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation.
Support from the Community
In Kyaliwajjala, the pilgrims were welcomed by the Alur community in Kampala. The community celebrated their arrival with traditional dances and songs, creating a festive atmosphere.
Impact on Traffic
As the pilgrims walked from Naguru to Namugongo, their presence affected traffic. The police provided guidance and security, ensuring that the pilgrims could move without any problems. People cheered them on from the sides of the road, offered them water, and took pictures as they passed by.
Journey’s End
The distance from Naguru to Namugongo was about seven kilometers, the shortest distance they covered during their pilgrimage. Unlike other days, they walked slowly, surrounded by officials and supporters. When they finally arrived at Namugongo at about 2:10 pm, their arrival was a moment of great celebration.
Personal Reflections
For many of the over 500 pilgrims, reaching Namugongo was a dream come true. Robert Orombi felt a sense of accomplishment, saying it was a mission well completed. Eric Mungu Jabero, despite facing challenges with his tricycle breaking down twice, was glad to have completed the journey.
Health and Spirits
Caroline Apio, a nurse who assisted the pilgrims, reported that everyone was in high spirits and there were no health emergencies. She noted that earlier in the journey, there were cases of muscle cramps and blisters, but from Naguru onwards, everyone was fine and excited to reach Namugongo.
Celebrating the Achievement
Walking over 300 kilometers is a significant achievement, and the celebrations at Namugongo were well-deserved. The multimedia company Vision Group has been sharing the stories of such pilgrimages since 2022, including the journeys from Fort Portal and Jinja dioceses in previous years.
Following the Journey
A number of journalists from different media housespfollowed the Nebbi Catholic Diocese pilgrims. They joined the group on the second day of the journey as they approached Bweyale from Karuma in Kiryandongo district. Initially strangers, the Vision Group team soon became part of the pilgrim family, sharing their experiences and challenges.