3rd June holds international significance as Uganda Martyrs’ day a special day commemorating the execution of courageous young Christian and Muslim men between 1885 – 1887 in various locations, with Munyonyo Namugongo and Nakiyanja being the most prominent among them.

Before 3rd June, a sequence of events were happening that started way back on 15th November 1885 with the execution of Joseph Mukasa Balikudembe the leader of all Christians by then, who was beheaded and burnt, at the current day Nakivubo swamp in Kampala, for having pleaded with kabaka Mwanga, not to kill Bishop James Hannington, an Anglican missionary, who accessed Buganda via the Eastern route from Busoga, which was known as Buganda’s back door and whoever used it, was regarded as an enemy to the mighty kingdom.

Preceding the king’s issuance of the execution command, the tragedy started at the current day Munyonyo martyrs’ shrine (Munyonyo Martyrs basilica) on Tuesday evening, 25th May, 1886 when the sovereign king of Buganda, Kabaka Danieri Mukasa Basammula Ekkere Mwanga II, lost the gun gifted to him by missionaries in Lake Victoria just close to his palace from their hunting expedition with his entourage. Upon his arrival at the palace, the irate king called his servants and many were not around, they had gone for catechism and prayers in their respective religions and upon their return, he called everyone and commanded religious believers to disassociate from his royal associates. 16 year old Denis Ssebugwawo boldly led his team, fearlessly taking the first move and the prowling Kabaka Mwanga II speared him on the spot, he ordered all believers to be arrested and sentenced them to death. He handed Ssebugwawo over to executioner Mpinga Kaloke that evening, who on Wednesday, 26th May 1886 handed him over to his men Mulyowa and Matembe for final execution. He was first beheaded and after hacked into pieces at Munyonyo which was the Kabaka’s palace by then.

Munyonyo Martyrs Basilika

During the night they were condemned, Charles Lwanga who was the leader of all believers by then, secretly administered baptism to some of his fellows including kizito Omuto, Mbaga Gyaviira and Mugagga Lubowa that night.

Monument showing some of the Martyrs Baptism the night before execution

On Wednesday morning, 26^th May 1886, Andrew Kaggwa was apprehended at his residence and was amputated per the orders of the Katikkiro (prime minister) Mukasa, who had ordered to see his arm before he had breakfast as proof for his death. He was then beheaded, cut to pieces and died later in the afternoon of that day.

The tomb where St Andrew Kaggwa shed blood after amputation before his death.

After this event, the convicted embarked on their voyage to Namugongo. It was a two-day pilgrimage, and various people, were killed on the way, for example Pontian Ngondwe, who was killed at Takajjunge- Munyonyo formally known as Tabataba. He was speared to death by the chief executioner Mukaajjanga in the evening of Wednesday, 26^th may 1886, beheaded by Sittankya, (an executioner) and his corpse cut into various pieces and littered all over the place. The rest proceeded with their journey to Namugongo.

On the morning of May, 27^th 1886, upon their arrival at the current day “Nakivubo” swamp, 20 years old Athanasius Bazzekuketta Kizza, volunteered to be killed at the same place where their Christian leader Joseph Mukasa Balikudembe was killed, as asked by the chief executioner Mukaajjanga. This was granted to him and was speared to death. With slave yokes and shackles they were tied, and moved in a coffle as they proceeded with their pilgrimage to Namugongo.

On the same day, when they reached a place currently known as “Old Kampala”, Mathias Kalemba Mulumba also asked not to be taken a long way to Namugongo, as if death could not be met there. After saying farewell to his friend Luke Banabakintu, the executioners got frustrated and took Mulumba into a grassy jungle a little away from his fellows and cut off his legs, both his arms, and then cut some pieces of flesh off his back and roasted them before him.  So as to stay longer in pain, the executioners skillfully applied herbs on his wounds and left him alone into the bush to be devoured by vouchers. He suffered silently while calling upon his creator until 30^th may 1886 when he breathed his last.

10 miles away from where Mathias Kalemba Mulumba was executed, at a place known as Lubaawo, Gonzaga Gonza was killed. He was so tired and worn out from the long trek, with his feet so swollen and shackles biting into his flesh, he collapsed and was speared to death at around noon of 27^th May 1886.

When they reached the kingdom’s execution grounds at Nakiyanja (the exact location of the Anglican martyr’s shrine), the condemned were not executed instantly. They were kept hostage for a week, as executioners were preparing to end their lives. They were gathering sufficient fire wood and reeds that would help them throughout the execution.

On 3^rd June, 1886, Charles Lwanga became the next victim when one of the executioners “Ssenkoole” chose him to be their sacrifice to the gods before the rest were executed, as a ritual was in Buganda to prevent the ghosts of the executed from haunting their executioners. 50 yards away from where his fellows were, he was taken at the place known as Namugongo (this is where the catholic Martyr’s Basilica was built), was made to prepare his own death, wrapped into reeds and burnt alive. He did not make any loud cry but moaned as he mocked his executioners asking them to change him like roasted meat so that all parts of him may be roasted till, they are fully ready as though they were to devour him as a roast. He twisted as he prayed to death.

After, the rest were also wrapped in reeds and put on a heap of firewood, and were burnt alive, as they moaned and sung songs of praise and worship so ready to meet their creator. And this is how these courageous young men became “MARTYRS”

As per the orders of the Kabaka, anyone charged of treason did not deserve a decent burial, and who ever attempted to bury them was also considered to be a traitor. So, the executioners remained at the scene to ensure no one was given a decent burial and added fire wood to fuel the blaze and make sure all remains burned to ashes but all in vain. They decided to vacate the place after trying their best. This was a mystery they had never seen before and as a result, many of the executioners resigned their execution jobs for good.

John Mary Kiwanuka Muzeyi, was the last one to be executed, he was martyred on Thursday 27^th February 1887 in Katikiro’s (prime minister) premises for inquiring whether the king was sincere with the decision he made. He was beheaded and slain, and his body was wrapped into wild banana leaves, and thrown into Kisenyi swamp. He marked the end of the execution of believers in Buganda under the order of Kabaka Mwanga II.

It should be remarked that among the people condemned and mattered, 23 of them were protestants who included Makko Kakumba, Dawudi Muwanga, Yusuf Lugalama, Musa Mukasa and others, 22 were Catholics, and among them were Andrew Kaggwa, Kizito omuto, Athanasios Bazekuketta, Charles Lwanga, and very few were Muslims. Not forgetting some other 2 Catholics named Daudi Okello and Jildo Irwa who were martyred at Paimol in Gulu making it a total number of 24 Catholics martyred. It is also said that there are some other 6 prisoners who were on death row and were killed together with the martyrs in Nakiyanja.

6 months later, remains of Charles Lwanga were taken by some Christians named Leo Lwanga, Matayo Kirevu, and Bwaliri Kamya, and took them for a decent burial. But after a series of events, these remains together with those of other martyrs, were taken to Rome in St Peter’s Basilica for canonization by pope Paul VI in 1964 and this is how the young courageous men became “SAINTS”. 2024 marks 60 years since the canonization of the Uganda Martyrs with celebrations happening all over catholic parishes.

After being canonized, the Uganda Martyrs left an indelible mark on history of Uganda, Africa, and the whole world on July 31^st 1969, as they prompted the first-ever reigning pope to visit Africa, and particularly Uganda. Pope Paul VI visited Uganda after an invitation from Uganda’s first Metropolitan Archbishop Emmanuel Kiwanuka Nsubuga during the 1967 Synode of Bishops in Rome, to come and visit the Martyrdom site and also consecrate the newly built alter for the 22 Catholic Uganda Martyrs, and on that day, a golden page was written and shall internally be remembered and cherished.

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The pearl of Africa boosts an extra ordinary land scape teeming with grassy plains and a unique biodiversity making it a paradise for wild life enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Unlike its counter parts in East Africa, Uganda holds a gem that promises an unforgettable adventure whose allure is completely irresistible. The Uganda Safari offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the tender beauty of the pearl’s diverse landscapes and grassy plains, the beautiful national parks that offer a great chance to encounter and spot out the most iconic species of biodiversity on the planet, the abundant wildlife, the affluent cultural heritage and worm hospitality, among other multifarious things that make Uganda truly stand out as a must visit destination for any adventurous traveler.

Let’s take a walk through the Uganda safari and what makes it special.

Unique Wildlife Encounters

How can we discuss the Uganda safari and skip mentioning the opportunity to witness the iconic wild life species that position Uganda in the number one place? Uganda is a home to a staggering array of animals including the iconic Big Five, which are, lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses. These can be witnessed by embarking on game drives, that offer an experience of watching these majestic iconic species in their natural habitats, which is hard to be imitated elsewhere. The big five may be encountered in national parks like, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park and Kidepo Valley National Park which are the pearl’s premier wildlife destinations.

Into the special wild life are nature’s most captivating phenomena- the tree climbing lions that can only be found in a sprawling expanse of savanna, forests and wetlands teeming with an incredible diversity of wild life, where Ishasha is among its many treasures and is also a home to these nature’s captivating phenomena, and not exclusive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, in the whole of Africa.

Traditionally, lions are well known for prowling the plains but lions in Ishasha have uniquely evolved away from their counterparts which has captivated wildlife enthusiasts’ imagination for decades. And also makes The Uganda safari more special.

Gorilla Trekking

This is one of Uganda’s most iconic experiences carried out through a labyrinth and dense foliage of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park to observe the remarkable mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Gorilla trekking offers a very rare opportunity to interact with nature in its purest form witnessing the fortitude and elegance of these extraordinary creatures.

Uganda holds more than half of the remaining global Mountain Gorilla populations and from the exhilarating journey through lush woods to the awe-inspiring encounter with the silverbacks, the adventure etches an indelible memory in the minds of all who undertake this remarkable voyage.

As you depart from this breathtaking experience, you cannot fail to carry with you memories of a once- in- a- lifetime encounter but also a renewed appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.

Scenic Landscapes

Uganda’s landscape is a tapestry of diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush rainforests and sprawling savannas, grassy plains to misty mountains and serene lakes and lagoons. From the dramatic Murchison falls to the tranquil waters of Lake Bunyonyi, from the mist-covered mountains of Rwenzori to the shimmering waters of Lake Victoria. The pearl’s scenery is as diverse as it is stunning. From the scenic landscapes of the western region, to the rugged and rolling Savanna plains and landscapes of kidepo Valley national park in the karamoja region. The pearl’s land scape is stunning and so breath taking.

One of the pearl’s most iconic natural attraction is the Murchison falls, where the mighty Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge before plunging over a 40-meter cascade. Witnessing the sheer power of the falls up close, together with the other breathtaking landscapes is an experience that gives an intimate interaction and leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

The bird Watching Paradise

Uganda is a paradise for birding enthusiasts with over 1,000 bird species inclusive of the elusive shoebills found at Mabamba swamp and a plethora of colorful endemic species like Red-throated bee-eater found in Queen Elizabeth National Park along the Kazinga Channel, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibaale National Park and some other hotspots which are some of the world’s avifaunal destinations. Uganda has serene habitants from wetlands and forests to savanna and mountains which are heaven to both resident bird species like the Grey crowned cranes, the Great blue turaco and migratory bird species like the Lesser flamingo, marsh warbler, and offer unmatched opportunities to observe vibrant and very rare species in their natural habitats.

Cultural Immersion

The pearl has a vibrant cultural heritage that adds an extra dimension to the safari experience with over 50 distinct tribes, each one of them with a different culture, traditions, languages, dance, food, the norms, customs and ceremonies. The hospitality of Baganda, ancient rituals of the Batwa pygmies, the norms of Karamojong and many other tribes, is what one must not miss on a visit to Uganda. Visitors have the opportunity to take visits in the villages and interact with local communities and learn about different traditional ways of life and also participate in cultural activities such as dance performances and craft demonstration which helps visitors to understand the broad tapestry of traditions in Uganda. Book your Ugandan Safari today by contacting TwentyEight Tours here https://twentyeighttours.com/talk-to-us/

Elephants are very large mammals often found in savanna grasslands and forests, but may also be found in deserts, swamps and tropical highlands. In Uganda, elephants can be found in different national parks for example, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Bwindi impenetrable forest, Kidepo Valley National Park, and many more on an Organized Safari by TwentyEight Tours which you can book here https://twentyeighttours.com/talk-to-us/ . Elephants originate from the Animalia kingdom, Mammalia class, proboscidea order, and the elephantidae family.

There are two types of elephants namely, the African bush elephants also known as (loxondonta Africana) and the Asian elephants also known as (elephas maximus). African bush elephants are slightly bigger than the Asian elephants.

OUTER FEATURES OF ELEPHANTS

A trunk; This is usually around 6 -7 feet long and is used to pick food for example leaves from trees and bringing it to the mouth just as human hands may work. It is also used for drinking water, breathing since it is an extended nose fused with the upper lip, and in communication by trumpeting. The trunk can also be used for defense for example, it is very strong that it can uproot a tree or break branches off trees to protect itself.

Tusks; these are extended canine teeth of the elephant that can grow up to 8 feet long. They are very strong teeth used for crushing food. They are also a form of defense mechanism helping to protect the trunks which are one of the most essential parts of the elephant. The tusks are used for digging and foraging.

Large ear flaps; These grow long according to how far they live from the equator. These ears are used for communication, for example, in a way of greeting each other or bonding after a given period of time, elephants swiftly flap their ears. This can also be done as a warning in case of any threat, or to show that they are unhappy about something or to simply express their feelings

Pillar like legs; Imagine something that can support about 7 tons of weight. They are really so strong, long and straight about 1meter tall for a front leg. The feet are flat to support the heavy weight so well. Apart from supporting the massive weight and locomotion, elephant legs can also be used for hearing. For example, they can pick up noises made by other animals, or vehicles, from a distance of up to 20 miles away by sensing vibrations under the ground through their flat feet. The feet have a large pad of gristle under each of the heels and these act as shock absorbers. These also help elephants walk quietly.

Thick skin; Elephants have a very thick skin of about 2.5cm thick in numerous places. It is folded and so wrinkled to retain body water and regulate heat as well. It can retain water 10 times more than a human body does. Elephants have a tendency of bathing soil dust or mud in a way of protecting themselves from the effect of sun, but also make sure that their bodies are clean.

The little tail; This can grow to around 1.5 meters long and it helps to swat away flies. And keep them away from the back. It is also used for communication, just like other animals like dogs wiggle their tails when happy, an elephant too does it to show excitement or happiness. Baby elephants (Calves) follow their mothers’ tails while walking for direction.

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT ELEPHANTS

Elephants have the sharpest brains and memory among all land animals, they never forget. Elephants actually remember all the events from their childhood, meaning if you do something good or bad to it, and escape, it will again remember you however long you stay in hiding, even if it changes the environment and you meet it in another continent, it will still remember and would deal with you accordingly.

Elephants can actually hear through their feet. This is by sensing vibration from the ground. This is because they have got flat feet with a large pad of gristle under each of the heels and these act as shock absorbers hence capturing vibration through the ground.

As humans are right handed or left handed, elephants too are either left tusked or right tusked. You can notice this by which side of tusk they use most. And actually, the side they use the most is stronger than the other, just as human hands.

Elephants can live up to 60-70 years. This is for African bush elephants. Asians can live up to 48 years of age. This is because elephants are typically herbivorous, that is, they only feed on plants and never eat meat. This gives them an advantage of living longer than other animals for example crocodiles and lions that feed on meat.

A male African bush elephant may weigh between 2-7 tons whereas a female can weigh around 3-4 tons. This is because they are naturally smaller than the males. On the other had Asian elephants weigh around 2-5 tons and their females weighing slightly less.

Lions are majestic big cats found in parts of Africa and India. Here are some facts that showcase the fascinating characteristics and behaviors of lions in the wild

Social Structure: Lions are known for their social nature and live in groups called prides, typically consisting of related females and their offspring.

Mane: Male lions are recognized by their distinctive manes, which vary in color and size. The mane serves as a display of dominance and health.

Hunting Roles: In a pride, lionesses are the primary hunters, working together to take down prey. Male lions often defend the territory and offspring.

Territorial Behavior: Lions are territorial animals, marking their territory with scent markings to warn other prides to stay away.

Habitat: They inhabit a range of environments, from grasslands and savannas to dense bush and woodlands.

Nocturnal Activity: Lions are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are more active during the night, which aids their hunting endeavors.

Communication: Lions communicate through vocalizations such as roars, grunts, and growls, which help them coordinate within the pride.

Size and Strength: Lions are one of the largest big cat species, with males being significantly larger than females. They possess powerful limbs and strong jaws.

Diet: Lions are carnivores, and their diet includes a variety of prey, such as wildebeests, kobs, zebras, and buffalos.

Endangered Status: African lions face threats like habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict, leading to their classification as a vulnerable species. Conservation efforts are crucial for their survival. These facts showcase the fascinating characteristics and behaviors of lions in the wild and you can book your African safari through TwentyEight Tours by clicking here  https://twentyeighttours.com/talk-to-us/ and you shall have a once in a lifetime encounter with the Kings of the Jungle.

3^rd March is World Wildlife Day, and was gazetted on 20th December, 2013, by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) after signing a Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in 1973. It is usually celebrated on a theme, in order to recognize the intrinsic value of the diverse array of wild life and highlight the urgent need to combat the various threats facing them.

Educating the public about the critical role that wildlife plays in maintaining the ecological balance and supporting human lives is another primary objective of the world wildlife day. From pollination of plants that provide us with food, to the operation of the hydrological cycle that sustains all the eco system, all wildlife is indispensable for the functioning of the ecosystem, and merits retention.

“Connecting people and planet: exploring digital innovation in wildlife conservation” is the 2024 theme, and as Twentyeight tours, we urge everyone to explore ways to leverage digital technologies for conservation of wild life and to nurture human wildlife coexistence across all generations.

This may be executed by utilizing the internet, through using social media platforms to propagate conservation ideologies, researching and conducting analysis about conservation of ecosystems, sustainable use of resources and other ways of best connecting people and the planet. To the abler, digital innovations like satellite tracking, DNA barcoding and use of drones to monitor wildlife in their natural habitats.