June 3rd is a big day in Uganda. It is the day the entire world has eyes on the Pearl of Africa as millions of pilgrims gather at Namugongo for the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations.
Celebrated annually, Martyrs Day honors 45 young Christians—22 Catholics and 23 Anglicans—who were executed between 1885 and 1887 for their faith.
The day draws millions of pilgrims to Namugongo from across the globe, making it one of the most significant religious events in Africa.
This year’s theme — “Lord, Let Me See Again”—was a spiritual invitation for pilgrims to renew their faith and hope.
And to ensure a colourful event that would ensure Uganda is noticed, the Diocese of Lugazi, who led the organization of the event at the Catholics Shrine, singled out Ashton Events for the job. And boy did they deliver!
Ashton Events, a renowned audiovisual and event décor company transformed the Catholic shrine into a sacred space that would both inspire and reflect deep reverence.
“We focused on the Martyrs. Many people go to Namugongo but don’t even know who the martyrs and what patronage they represent,” Andrew Galabuzi, one of the Directors said.
“We had to incorporate the 24 catholic martyrs in the decor,” he added.
The place was painted in red, white and yellow. And there was a reason behind each of the colours.
Red represented the blood shed by the martyrs. White and yellow are church colours and represent light and purity.
Creative Director Clare Galabuzi and her team ensured the pilgrims felt the decors touch.
“The decoration was meant to give the pilgrims the feel that this is a holy place, beautiful and serene.”
Signature Decorations
At the altar, a cathedral-inspired backdrop featuring stained glass gypsum and an ornate chandelier added grandeur to the sacred space.
Red carpets at all entrances gave pilgrims a sense of walking into a holy sanctuary, while floral arrangements along the walkway mirrored the theme’s vibrancy.
Tough task
Moving around Namugongo in the days leading up to Martyrs Day is one of the toughest tasks one can accomplish.
And this did not spare the Ashton Events team that had to do most of its work before D-day.
Road closures and limited access made it hard for the team to deliver materials, which forced the crew to secure nearby accommodation to keep the project on track.
About Ashton Events
With over a decade of experience in both corporate and private functions, Ashton Events is co-directed by Andrew Galabuzi, who leads audiovisual operations, and Clare Galabuzi, who oversees creative design.
The firm is widely respected for its passion, innovation, and exceptional attention to detail.
Clare Galabuzi extended heartfelt thanks to Rev. Fr. Richard Ssemanda, Chair of the Decoration Committee, for giving the team creative freedom.
“He trusted us, and we made sure not to disappoint,” she said.
Ashton Events’ contribution to Martyrs Day 2025 was more than decorative—it was devotional.
By turning vision into sacred experience, the team demonstrated that faith, when paired with creativity, can transform spaces and touch souls.
Rev. Father. Aloysius Opio of Uganda Catholic Television (UCTV), one of the pilgrims at Namugongo, is one of several who noticed the kind of work done by the decorators.
“It seems every coin was invested in the décor. The team outdid themselves to give the occasion its due billing.” Rev. Father Opio remarked.
According to Father. Richard Ssemanda, the Decoration Committe Chairperson, the team depended on the teaching of the church to deliver the beautiful piece of art.
He said: “Whatever we set there was in line with the teaching of the Church.”
