English
Arabic
Chinese (Simplified)
Dutch
French
German
Italian
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
By Dickens Aruca, Radio Wa, Lira Diocese
More than 300 foot pilgrims from Lira Diocese have embarked on their annual pilgrimage to the Paimol Martyrs Shrine in Agago District ahead of the October 20, 2026, commemoration of Blessed Daudi Okello and Jildo Irwa.
Goddy Akio, the Publicity Secretary for Lira Diocese foot pilgrims, confirmed that the first groups had set off for the shrine, with additional pilgrims expected to join the journey.
Akio said the initial groups came from Aputi Parish in Amolatar District, Agweng Parish in Lira District, Te-Boke Parish in Apac District and Aber Parish in Oyam District.
Lira Diocese expects more than 700 foot pilgrims to participate in this year’s commemoration, which honours Blessed Daudi Okello and Jildo Irwa, two young catechists who were killed at Paimol more than a century ago because of their Christian faith.
The two martyrs are remembered for their commitment to spreading the Gospel despite persecution, and their witness continues to inspire Christians to remain steadfast in their faith.
Pilgrims Urged to Observe Safety Precautions
As the pilgrimage gets underway, organisers have urged pilgrims to prioritise their safety amid reports of marauding elephants and other wildlife in parts of the Acholi and Lango sub-regions.
Akio said pilgrims would undertake their journeys during daylight hours following reports of elephant movements from Kidepo Valley National Park in the areas of Lukole and Lapono sub-counties, where two people were reportedly killed in elephant attacks.
He explained that restricting the journeys to daylight hours was intended to minimise the risks associated with the reported wildlife movements along the pilgrimage routes.
Akio also appealed to transport operators to provide well-maintained vehicles for pilgrims travelling to the shrine, emphasising the need to prevent road accidents during the annual commemoration.
The safety precautions come as pilgrims from different parts of Lira Diocese make their way to Paimol for the annual celebration.
Archdiocese of Gulu Deanery to Animate Celebration
This year’s commemoration is expected to be animated by the Holy Rosary Deanery under the Archdiocese of Gulu, with the Bishop of Arua Diocese expected to preside as the main celebrant.
The annual pilgrimage brings together Christians from across northern Uganda to honour the legacy of Blessed Daudi Okello and Jildo Irwa, whose sacrifice remains an enduring example of faith, courage and commitment to the Gospel.
For the pilgrims, the journey is not merely a physical undertaking but also an opportunity for prayer, reflection and spiritual renewal as they make their way to the shrine of the two young catechists.
Lira Diocese anticipates more than 700 foot pilgrims at this year’s commemoration on October 20, as Christians gather to celebrate the lives and witness of the two martyrs.
End