| Archbishop Janani Luwum Day | |
|---|---|
| Official name | Archbishop Janani Luwum Day |
| Observed by | Uganda |
| Type | Public holiday |
| Date | 16 February |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Related to | Janani Luwum |
Archbishop Janani Luwum Day is a public holiday in Uganda observed annually on 16 February to commemorate the life and martyrdom of Archbishop Janani Luwum, the former Archbishop of the Church of Uganda. [1] The holiday was established in 2015 by the Ugandan government and first observed on 16 February 2016, marking the 39th anniversary of Luwum's death. [2] [3] [4]
The holiday specifically honors Archbishop Janani Luwum, who served as the second African Archbishop of the Church of the Province of Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Boga Zaire from 1974 to 1977. [5] Luwum was murdered on 16 February 1977 on the orders of dictator Idi Amin after delivering a protest against acts of violence allegedly committed by security services. [6] [7]
The death of Archbishop Luwum became a turning point in Ugandan history, as it galvanized opposition to Amin's repressive regime rather than silencing dissent as intended. [2] Today, Archbishop Luwum is recognized by the Church of England as a hero, and his statue stands among other twentieth-century martyrs at the Great West Door of Westminster Abbey in London. [2]
Archbishop Janani Luwum Day is observed as a public holiday throughout Uganda, meaning it is a day off for the general population, and schools and most businesses are closed. [8] [9] The main commemoration activities typically take place at Luwum's birthplace in Mucwini, Kitgum District, where he was born to Acholi parents. [10] [11]
The commemoration includes various community engagement activities, including football competitions among youth at the Archdeaconry level, with finals typically held on 14 February in Mucwini. [10] The Ugandan government has expressed commitment to supporting the Church of Uganda in organizing the commemoration service and associated activities. [10] Plans are underway to develop Mucwini into a modern tourism site to honor Archbishop Luwum's legacy. [10]
The Church of Uganda has organized special pilgrimage events in honor of the archbishop, including a 500-kilometer pilgrimage that follows the final journey of Archbishop Luwum to commemorate his martyrdom. [12] [13]