Thousands of Ugandans are set to commemorate Bishop James Hannington the first Anglican Bishop of Eastern Equatorial Africa Day in Mayuga District.
The Government of Uganda, through the Directorate for Ethics and Integrity (DEI) officially announced the National Commemoration of Bishop Hannington Day, taking place on Thursday, 29th October 2026, at Kyando Hill in Mayuge District.
This annual national milestone honors the deep legacy of Bishop James Hannington, the first Anglican Bishop of Eastern Equatorial Africa, who was martyred on 29th October 1885.
According to Permanent Secretary Ministry Ethics and Integrity Joel Wanjala, this year’s national event will be held under the theme: “Anchored in Christ for Unity, Peace and Stability” (derived from Ephesians 2:12-14), calling on all Ugandans to embrace national reconciliation and shared values.
Organized under the political guidance of the Minister of State for Ethics and Integrity, the event is a collaborative state-church partnership involving the Church of Uganda, the Cultural Institution of the Kyabazinga of Busoga, Mayuge District Local Government, and various key ministries.
Bishop James Hannington was executed on 29th October 1885 on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II of Buganda. The kingdom perceived his arrival from the East as a fulfillment of ancient prophecies warning of an invading force from that direction.
His death is recognized as the structural catalyst that triggered the subsequent mass executions of the Uganda Martyrs between 1885 and 1886. His remains rest at Namirembe Hill in Kampala.
In July 2015, H.E. the President mandated the Directorate for Ethics and Integrity to coordinate all state-recognized religious activities and inter-faith relations across Uganda, ensuring strong partnerships with religious and faith organizations to promote patriotism and national accountability
Reflecting its growing national and international importance, attendance at the site has risen from 2,500 pilgrims in 2024 to over 10,000 in 2025. This rapid growth has catalyzed significant regional development.
The Ministry of Works and Transport has successfully upgraded the Mayuge-Kyando road from gravel to tarmac, and the local community has established a robust hospitality network of new hotels to accommodate visitors.
The Government’s long-term vision is to transform Kyando Hill into an International Religious Tourist Site. A dedicated Site Development Committee has finalized a strategic Development Plan and is budgeting for infrastructural expansions. Furthermore, the Directorate is working alongside Uganda Christian University (UCU), Mukono, to fully archive and document Bishop Hannington’s life for future generations.
All members of the Cabinet, Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, and the general public are warmly invited to attend and participate in this National Day of Reflection.
