Tragedy has struck the family of a Catholic faithful from Chemase in Uasin Gishu whose kin collapsed as he was treking to Uganda’s Namugongo Shrine for the annual prayers to remember 13 Roman Catholics who were burnt to death on June 3, 1886.
Addressing the press when the Kenyan team arrived at Amagoro on before crossing the border to Uganda, Abraham Kimutai Muke said the deceased Joseph Chepkurui Sinon could not continue with the journey after collapsing owing to the treacherous journey.
They are praying for the soul of Chepkurui to rest in eternity, but they have also offered special prayers to Kenya for peace to prevail and leaders to agree on pertinent issues affecting the country.
Catechist Dominon Suter from Marigat said they started the journey on 8th May 2024, noting that they have so far covered 300kilometrs to Malaba Border.
“As heroes of Jesus, I have opted to trek to Uganda event that is celebrated every 3rd June annually,” he said, adding that the event is meant for self-confession, the church, nationally and internationally, considering many social challenges in the world.
“We thank God that floods that had ravaged the country in the last few weeks have subsided,” he said.
The oldest person in the pilgrimage is the 75-year-old Valentine Yego, who comes from Kabiyet farm, thanked God for giving them strength, urging Christian to guide them in their, triumphant entry to Namugongo.
The youngest member of the team is Irene Chelagat, 25, who thanked God for giving her strength to join the team to Namugongo, urging her fellow youths to join them in the spiritual journey.
Sister Sarah Ragier of the Asumbi sisters from Kaplong in Kericho Diocese said it was the first time for her to go to Uganda, noting that she expects to get new experience in Uganda.
Out of the 22 Roman Catholics killed under the order of King Kabaka II many years back, 13 of them were burnt to death at Namugongo.
Namugongo village was used as an execution ground for prisoners and all people who fell victim to the King’s anger. Nine of the remaining Roman Catholic Martyrs were killed from different locations.
By Absalom Namwalo
