The Prime Minister of Uganda, Nabbanja Robinah, today represented H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni during a Holy Mass at the Uganda Martyrs Minor Basilica in Namugongo.
The event brought together pilgrims from both Uganda and Tanzania who had gathered to honor Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, who is currently being considered for sainthood.
In his sermon, Fr. Anthony from Tanzania, who served as the day’s main celebrant, urged pilgrims to prioritize strengthening their faith.
He emphasized that deepening one’s relationship with God is essential, especially in today’s world filled with distractions and challenges.
According to President Museveni, the intercession prayers for the beatification and canonization process of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere are a fitting tribute to his selfless contribution to Uganda, particularly during the struggle to liberate the nation from non-democratic regimes.
Hellen Nyerere, the granddaughter of Julius Nyerere, delivered a heartfelt message of appreciation on behalf of all Tanzanian pilgrims. She expressed gratitude for the unity and spiritual solidarity shown during the special occasion.
Since 2009, pilgrims from Tanzania have made an annual journey to Namugongo to participate in a special prayer service dedicated to the cause of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere’s beatification. Nyerere, a devout Catholic and the former President of Tanzania, passed away on October 14, 1999, at the age of 77.
This sacred prayer tradition began after Pope Benedict XVI declared Nyerere a Servant of God on May 13, 2005.
This declaration marked the first official step in the process toward his beatification and eventual canonization as a saint.