The construction of Katoosa Martyrs Shrine into a modern religious tourism site has officially commenced, marking the start of a government-backed project aimed at upgrading one of Uganda’s key pilgrimage destinations in Kyenjojo District.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held on Tuesday at Katoosa Martyrs Shrine grounds and was presided over by Bishop Robert Muhirwa of Fort Portal Catholic Diocese, who officially handed over the site to the contractor. The project focuses on transforming the shrine, the birthplace of St. Adolf Tibeyalirwa (Ludigo-Mukasa), one of the Uganda Martyrs killed in 1886 under the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II for his Christian faith.Every year on January 27, thousands of pilgrims visit Katoosa to commemorate his life, witness, and sacrifice. The government has allocated Shs8.5 billion for the upgrade, according to the Acting Commissioner for Museums and Monuments in the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Jackline Nyiracyiza Besigye.
She said the contract has been awarded to Shine Afric Company Limited, which is expected to complete the works within 24 months.
Besigye explained that the project will include construction of a modern altar, a VVIP block, electrical installations, and other external works aimed at improving the shrine’s infrastructure and visitor experience.She added that the investment aligns with the government’s strategy to promote faith-based tourism as part of the broader plan to position tourism as a leading contributor to economic growth by 2040.Bishop Muhirwa commended the government, particularly the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, for supporting the development of the shrine. He said the upgrade will preserve the memory of St. Adolf Tibeyalirwa while strengthening the site’s role as a centre for pilgrimage and faith-based tourism. “Katoosa Martyrs Shrine will be a place of prayer, pilgrimage, and reflection, but it will also contribute to the socio-economic transformation of our people through tourism,” Bishop Muhirwa said.
He also urged the construction team to deliver quality work within the agreed timeframe. Johnmary Agaba, Chairperson of the Katoosa Shrine Development Committee, said the investment reflects a commitment to holistic community development through religious tourism.
He called on the contractor to prioritize employment opportunities for residents and source construction materials locally, so that surrounding communities directly benefit from the project-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
