Namugongo pilgrims warned against drinking ‘holy water’

PILGRIMS | 'HOLY WATER'

KAMPALA - Catholic pilgrims to the Uganda Martyr’s Shrine in Namugongo who collect water from the holy well, have been cautioned against drinking the water.  

Church authorities say the water can be used for other scripture purposes such as making the sign of the cross, but it is not fit for consumption. 

Uganda Episcopal Conference secretary general, Msgr. John B. Kauta, said although faithful who collect the water claim spiritual healing, health experts have assured church leaders that the water is unclean and not good. 

“The water in Namugongo is distilled, but it is not safe to drink. This is also because it runs from many places. People can take it and use it for signs, but don’t drink it,” he said. 

Kauta explained that due to the high water demand, they set up five taps at the well for easier access. 

The Bishop of Jinja, Charles Martin Wamika (R) addresses media on preparations for the Uganda Martyrs Celebrations, flanked by Msgr. John B. Kauta, the Secretary General of Uganda Episcopal Conference Catholic Secretariat. This was at Uganda Catholic Secretariat at Nsambya on Thursday, March 16, 2023. (Credit: Ponsiano Nsimbi)

He noted that the church will in the future consider drilling water from underground in an effort to revive an earlier plan for a Namugongo water enterprise that was first floated by the late Archbishop Cyprian Kizito Lwanga. 

Kauta made the remarks during a media briefing in preparation for this year’s Martyrs’ Day celebrations at the secretariat’s office in Nsambya where he was flanked by Bishop of Jinja Diocese, Charles Martin Wamika, and other members of the organising committee. 

Jinja Diocese on behalf of the Tororo Ecclesiastical Province and the Uganda Episcopal Conference was chosen to organise and animate the national celebrations. 

The diocese last led the celebrations at Namugongo in 2002. This year’s celebrations will be held under the theme Lord increase our faith (Luke 17:5). 

Wamika said the celebrations will run up expenses of up to sh2.2b, and requested support from stakeholders including the government and corporate entities.