Behind the preparations is a team of experienced academics, administrators and church leaders whose combined expertise is helping shape one of Uganda’s largest annual religious events. From fundraising and infrastructure development to security, worship and pilgrim welfare, the university’s leadership has become instrumental in coordinating this year’s commemorations.
Prof John Mulindwa Kitayimbwa
At the centre of the preparations is John Mulindwa Kitayimbwa, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs at UCU and chairperson of the Martyrs’ Day Organising Committee.
Born and raised in Namungoona, Prof Kitayimbwa attended Kasubi Church of Uganda Primary School before joining King’s College Budo and later Makerere College School for his advanced studies.
He graduated from Makerere University with a Bachelor of Science with Education, specialising in Mathematics and Chemistry, before pursuing a Master of Science in Mathematical Sciences at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology.
After teaching at Makerere University, he joined UCU in 2005 as a lecturer in Mathematics. His academic journey later took him to the University of Cambridge, where he earned an MPhil in Computational Biology and subsequently completed a joint PhD programme between Cambridge and Makerere University.
His research has focused on computational biology, particularly the evolution of viral diseases such as HIV, influenza and Ebola.
In 2015, he felt called to ordained ministry and began theological studies at UCU. He completed a Master of Divinity in 2019 and was later ordained as a priest in the Church of Uganda under Kampala Diocese.
Since his appointment as Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs in October 2019, Prof Kitayimbwa has combined academic leadership with pastoral ministry. As chairperson of the organising committee, he has overseen preparations aimed at ensuring a successful and spiritually enriching commemoration.
David Mugawe
Working alongside him is David Mugawe, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration and co-chairperson of the organising committee.
Born at Mbale Hospital more than five decades ago, Mugawe grew up within the academic environment of Makerere University, where his father served as a senior lecturer.
He attended Kitante Primary School and King’s College Budo before pursuing higher education at Makerere University and later obtaining a master’s degree in the United Kingdom.
At UCU, he oversees finance, administration and institutional planning. For the Martyrs’ Day celebrations, he chairs the Finance and Fundraising Sub-Committee and coordinates security arrangements.
His focus has centred on improving safety and security, water and sanitation services, and beautification works at the Anglican Martyrs’ Site to ensure pilgrims worship in a safe and dignified environment.
Prof Aaron Mushengyezi
Aaron Mushengyezi, the Vice Chancellor of UCU, serves as patron of the organising committee.
Before joining UCU, Prof Mushengyezi spent 23 years at Makerere University, where he served as Head of the Department of Journalism and Communication and later Dean of the School of Languages, Literature and Communication.
Born on July 24, 1969, he obtained both his undergraduate and master’s degrees from Makerere University before earning a PhD from the University of Connecticut.
As Vice Chancellor, he has focused on strengthening university systems, expanding research and steering institutional growth. During the Martyrs’ Day preparations, he has played a key role in coordinating efforts between UCU, the national organising committee, government agencies and the Church of Uganda.
Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu
The spiritual head of the Anglican Church in Uganda, Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, also serves as Chancellor of UCU.
Born in Buikwe District in 1962, Archbishop Kaziimba holds a Master of Divinity and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Western Theological Seminary in Michigan, United States.
Before becoming Archbishop in 2020, he served as Bishop of Mityana Diocese for more than a decade. He is widely recognised for promoting reconciliation, church growth and community development.
As Archbishop, he entrusted UCU with organising the Anglican Martyrs’ Day celebrations and continues to provide overall spiritual and institutional guidance.
Bishop Alfred Olwa
Another key figure in the preparations is Alfred Olwa, the Bishop of Lango Diocese and Chairperson of the UCU Governing Council.
Born in 1964, Bishop Olwa studied theology in Uganda, the United Kingdom and Australia. His academic journey included studies at Bishop Tucker School of Divinity, Wycliffe Hall Oxford, London School of Theology and Moore Theological College in Sydney, where he earned a PhD.
As chairperson of the university’s governing council, he has overseen major developments at the Anglican Martyrs’ Site, including the construction of walkways, installation of improved sanitation facilities and ongoing work on the amphitheatre.
These improvements are intended to enhance safety, accessibility and the overall worship experience for pilgrims.
Collective effort
Together, these leaders represent a blend of academic excellence, administrative experience and spiritual leadership.
Their combined efforts have helped position UCU at the heart of this year’s Anglican Martyrs’ Day celebrations, ensuring that preparations remain organised, safe and focused on the spiritual significance of the annual commemoration.
As Uganda continues to navigate evolving public health and logistical challenges, the university’s leadership remains central to delivering a celebration that reflects both faith and resilience.