The Government of Uganda has unveiled an ambitious plan to develop an international pilgrimage centre in honour of the late Archbishop Janani Luwum, with national leaders calling for accelerated implementation to transform the site into a global spiritual destination.
The announcement was made by the Minister of State for Ethics and Integrity, Rose Lilly Akello, during the 49th commemoration anniversary of Archbishop Janani Luwum held at Mucwini Ceremonial Grounds in Mucwini sub-county, Kitgum district, located in the Acholi sub-region.
The annual event attracts thousands of pilgrims, clergy, political leaders, and faithful from within Uganda and beyond.
Akello told the gathering that the government has developed a comprehensive vision to establish a fully-fledged international pilgrimage Centre at the birthplace of the fallen Archbishop.
She explained that the project is intended not only to preserve Luwum’s legacy but also to position northern Uganda as a key hub for religious tourism.
According to the minister, the planned facilities at the pilgrimage site will include a modern church, a school, a stadium, accommodation facilities for pilgrims, and other supporting infrastructure such as access roads, water, and sanitation systems.
She said these developments aim to enable pilgrims to worship, reflect, and learn about the life and sacrifice of Archbishop Luwum in a dignified and organised environment.
“This site will be elevated into a global spiritual destination,” Akello said. “It will stand as a place of worship, reflection, and historical education, reminding the world of Archbishop Janani Luwum’s courage, faith, and moral leadership.”
She emphasised that the development aligns with the government’s broader commitment to promoting cultural heritage and faith-based tourism as engines for local and national development.
Also read: Janani Luwum Day: COU introduces annual foot pilgrimage to Mucwini
The minister added that once completed, the pilgrimage Centre would create employment opportunities, stimulate local businesses, and improve social services in the surrounding communities.
During her address, Akello also commended the people of Kitgum district and the wider Acholi sub-region for their continued support of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidates in the 2026 general elections.
She said the region’s voting pattern reflects growing confidence in government leadership and development programs aimed at post-conflict recovery.
In a related development, the Kitgum District Woman Member of Parliament, who also serves as Minister of State for Relief and Disaster Preparedness, Lillian Aber, raised concerns over renewed insecurity linked to the alleged return of Karamojong cattle rustlers in parts of the district.
Addressing President Museveni during the commemoration, Aber appealed for the reinforcement of security personnel to protect vulnerable communities and prevent further incidents of cattle raiding.
She noted that peace and security are crucial for the success of major projects, such as the Janani Luwum Pilgrimage Centre, and for sustaining development gains in the region.
Aber also strongly called for the fast-tracking of construction works at the pilgrimage site. She described Archbishop Janani Luwum as a national and international religious icon whose legacy transcends ethnic and regional boundaries.
“Archbishop Janani Luwum is not only an Acholi hero but a symbol of faith, truth, and sacrifice for Uganda and the global Christian community,” she said. “Delays in developing this site deny the nation and the world an opportunity to fully honour his contribution.”
She further applauded the government for rolling out socio-economic transformation initiatives across the Acholi sub-region.
According to Aber, investments in infrastructure, livelihood support, agriculture, and wealth creation programs have significantly contributed to steady development and post-conflict recovery, improving the lives of ordinary citizens.
In his response, President Museveni reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fully developing the Janani Luwum Pilgrimage Centre. He said the site would be developed to a standard comparable to Namugongo Martyrs Shrine, which attracts millions of pilgrims annually from across Africa and the world.
The President emphasised that honouring Archbishop Luwum is a national duty, given his unwavering stand against injustice and his ultimate sacrifice for truth and faith.
He assured the faithful and leaders present that the government would continue to work with the Church and local authorities to ensure the project is realised.
As the annual Janani Luwum commemoration continues to grow in scale and significance, the renewed government commitment and calls for faster implementation signal a turning point in transforming Mucwini into a lasting symbol of faith, sacrifice, and national unity.
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