By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
What began as a national tribute to faith and sacrifice has blossomed into a vibrant regional platform for youth expression. The Uganda Martyrs Essay Writing Competition, now in its third year, has expanded its reach beyond Uganda’s borders to include participants from Tanzania and Malawi, a move organizers say underscores the unifying power of shared history and spiritual conviction.
Launched in 2022 by Prof. Patrick Kyamanywa, Vice Chancellor of Uganda Martyrs University (UMU), the competition honors the enduring legacy of the 45 Uganda Martyrs (23 Anglican and 22 Catholic converts) executed between 1885 and 1887 under the orders of King Mwanga II for refusing to renounce their faith.
“This competition is about more than history,” Prof. Kyamanywa said in an interview. “It is a bridge between the courage of the past and the possibilities of the present. These young martyrs were defined by conviction and integrity. We want our youth to reflect on these values and let them shape the future.”
Regional Expansion and Participation
This year’s competition received 58 entries from students across Uganda, Tanzania, and for the first time – Malawi. The essays tackled themes at the intersection of faith, culture, and transformation. A panel of 10 judges shortlisted 23 essays, ultimately selecting four finalists for top honors.
Topping the competition was Asiimwe Ritah Precious, a student at St. Charles Lwanga Secondary School in Uganda’s Kiyinda-Mityana Diocese. Her essay explored how the Martyrs’ virtues; integrity, bravery, and moral leadership can transform society today. “This story has taught me that young people can lead with truth and courage,” Asiimwe said. She will receive a $500 cash prize and a commemorative plaque.
Eliza Andrea, from Likuni Girls Secondary School in Malawi’s Lilongwe Archdiocese, claimed second place with a compelling piece on promoting the Martyrs’ legacy internationally. Her debut for Malawi earned her $400 and a plaque. Two students tied for third place: Ayoub Hamadi of Lesso Compassion Secondary School in Tanzania and Mukamatalemwa Carolyne from St. Maria Goretti SS in Uganda’s Fort Portal Diocese. Each will receive $300 and a plaque.
Prize Ceremony Slated for Martyrs Day
Proscovia Nabatte, Head of Public Relations and Marketing at Uganda Martyrs University said the four winners will be formally presented by Prof. Kyamanywa to the main celebrant at the upcoming Martyrs Day celebrations at Namugongo on June 3, 2025, a symbolic moment connecting the past’s sacrifice with the present’s aspirations.
Winning Themes Emphasize Legacy and Global Reach
The top essays delved into diverse but interconnected themes. Asiimwe’s essay highlighted the Martyrs as models of ethical leadership, emphasizing values such as civic responsibility and religious tolerance. Hamadi echoed this by underscoring their commitment to justice and moral courage.
Meanwhile, both Andrea and Mukamatalemwa focused on the need to amplify the Martyrs’ stories beyond Uganda. From incorporating their history into school curricula to using digital platforms like YouTube and social media, they proposed a modern evangelism rooted in heritage.
Judges evaluated entries based on originality, clarity, presentation, and critical engagement. More than a literary contest, organizers describe the event as a catalyst for transformation.
“This isn’t just about winning prizes,” said one judge. “It’s about amplifying youth voices around values that build stronger, more compassionate societies.”
As participation grows, so too does the competition’s impact. What began as a domestic tribute is now a regional movement, proving that the Uganda Martyrs’ legacy, rooted in sacrifice and conviction still speaks powerfully to the next generation.
