Ottawa, Canada – The High Commission of the Republic of Uganda Ottawa, in collaboration with St. Elizabeth Parish, the Catholic Community of Ottawa, and the Uganda Association of Ottawa, commemorated Uganda Martyrs’ Day on 14 June 2026 in a special Mass honoring the faith, courage, and sacrifice of the 45 Ugandan Christian converts who were martyred between 1885 and 1887 for their steadfast commitment to their faith.  

The celebration was led by His Excellency Most Rev. Ivan Jurkovič, Apostolic Nuncio to Canada, and brought together members of the clergy, the diplomatic corps, the Ugandan diaspora, and friends of Uganda from across Canada for a day of prayer, reflection, fellowship, and spiritual renewal where he underscored the enduring values embodied by the Uganda Martyrs faith, courage, perseverance, integrity, and commitment to godly principles. 

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Allan Kajik, Chargé d’Affaires of the Uganda High Commission in Ottawa, expressed appreciation to the Apostolic Nuncio for his inspiring message on prayer, unity, and spiritual resilience. He also commended Fr. Martin Ndyanabo for his leadership in mobilizing the faithful and applauded the Ugandan diaspora for preserving strong cultural and spiritual ties with their homeland. 

By celebrating the Uganda Martyrs in Canada, the High Commission strengthened engagement with the Ugandan diaspora while showcasing Uganda’s rich cultural, religious, and historical heritage to a broader international audience.  The commemoration concluded with a cultural dinner that showcased Uganda’s rich cultural diversity through music, dance, traditional attire, cuisine, and hospitality, providing guests with a vibrant experience of the Pearl of Africa and reinforcing the enduring bonds of friendship between Uganda and Canada.

Photo Credit: Uganda High Commission Ottawa