By KT Reporter
The Ministry of Trade and Tourism has announced plans to develop Iceme Marian Shrine under the Lira Catholic Diocese. The State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, revealed the plan during the celebration of the Marian Shrine held on May 3, 2025, at Iceme Catholic Parish in Oyam District.
The event attracted pilgrims from the dioceses of Gulu, Arua, Nebbi, and Lira under GANAL and other areas. Mugarra said the Ministry of Tourism, through its mandate under the Museums and Monuments Act, has built strong partnerships with religious institutions, which have led to the development of major religious sites such as the Namugongo Martyrs Shrine.
He pledged that the government would also intervene to boost the development of the Iceme Marian Shrine.
Oyam North Member of Parliament, Eunice Apio Otuku, urged the Minister to take note of the five cultural, historical, and religious sites in Oyam District, including the Iceme Catholic Shrine, Abok Massacre Site, and Atura Landing Site, among others.
The Archbishop of Gulu Archdiocese, His Grace Rt. Rev. Raphael P’Mony Wokorach, who was the main celebrant at the event, welcomed the government’s commitment. He emphasized that developing religious sites would help Christians reconnect with their rich history.
The Bishop of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, applauded the government for its support, saying it would promote Lira Diocese to the world.
Martin Abila, a Christian from Iceme Catholic Parish, said gazetting the Iceme Marian Shrine into a tourism center would enhance both faith and economic activity in the area.
Iceme Marian Pilgrimage was established on May 7, 2013. Each year, the faithful gather at the shrine in prayer and devotion to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
