More than 700 foot pilgrims set off this morning for the Namugongo trek from Namrwodho Nebbi cathedral parish in Nebbi district.
Speaking to KFM, the spokesperson Organizing committee Nebbi diocese Fr Emmanuel Ocokuru said the pilgrims will be flagged off in the morning from Nebbi by the Archbishop elect of Gulu Archdiocese Raphael Okorach.
Father Ocokuru says the pilgrim’s first stop will be in Packwach Town, and the next day they will be driven to Karuma, to ensure their safety from wild animals in the Murchison Falls National Park.
“ We have a number of about 700 pilgrims who will be footing and those who will take off from Nebbi will be around 400 and some will be waiting from Pakwach, the pilgrims will be supported by MTN who will give them reflector jackets and there are some individuals who have also shown interest.’’ Mr. Ocokuru said.
Lawrence Songa a member of parliament of Ora county Zombo District speaks to KFM “ Today we have started the walk to Kampala up to Namugongo they are many pilgrims we want to call upon all the along the road to support them so that they can reached safely to Kampala, pray on third and then return to Nebbi’’. Lawrence said.
The foot pilgrims are expected to trek all the way to Namugongo shrine in Wakiso District, covering a distance of about 272 KM for the annual Martyrs’ Day celebrations slated for June 3rd.
This year’s National Martyrs’ Day celebrations at the Namugongo Catholic shrine will be led by the Nebbi catholic diocese.
By Patrick Okaba and Barbra Anyait
