Catherine Ninsiima, a 10-year-old girl from Bushenyi District, embarked on a remarkable 350km journey to Namugongo in celebration of Martyrs Day. Her inspiring walk of faith has garnered attention and resulted in people stepping forward to sponsor her education.

This response comes after the publication of an article in the Monitor, which highlighted both the oldest and youngest pilgrims. Additionally, an earlier article shed light on Ninsiima's courageous journey. In the Friday story, Ninsiima shared her motivations for undertaking the walk to Namugongo.

"This is my first time walking to Namugongo. My primary objective is to pray for God's blessings so that my mother can find the means to pay for our education. Our father left us when I was 9 years old, and I hope and pray that he will return home soon, as we all miss him," she expressed.

In a previous publication on May 24, an incredible story of Ninsiima was shared, who embarked on an 11-day journey from Kizinga Village in Bushenyi District, Mbarara Diocese, to Namugongo for the celebrations.

Ninsiima expressed that she undertook this challenging walk of faith to purify herself spiritually and have her prayers answered. Her main intentions were to seek God's provision for her school fees and to reunite her family after her father reportedly left them. The story quickly gained public attention, with Ugandans on Twitter and Facebook coming together to raise Shs2,360,000 as a startup fund for her. Additionally, numerous individuals reached out via email to offer their assistance.

One of Ninsiima's sponsors also kindly gifted her mother a smartphone, which would facilitate communication. This generous gesture, along with the monetary support, was presented to Ninsiima in the presence of her aunt, Ms. Jovita Busingye, who accompanied her throughout the trek.

"Thank you so much for providing me with school fees. I am overwhelmed by the kindness shown to me," expressed Ninsiima.

Ninsiima, a Primary Four student with aspirations of becoming a nurse, vowed to study diligently and complete her education.

Dr. Fredrick Kizito, a Ugandan residing in America and one of the sponsors contributing to Ninsiima's education, affirmed his commitment to supporting her educational journey.

Dr. Kizito, speaking in a telephone interview, explained his decision to sponsor Ninsiima's education, stating, "By supporting Ninsiima's education, we create opportunities for those around her." Another volunteer, Mr. Elly Turyamuhaki, pledged to cover her school fees for the entire year. Mr. Turyamuhaki, who also purchased the smartphone for Ninsiima's mother, added, "I have spoken with her mother and the headteacher. On Tuesday, I will transfer the school fees directly to her school. We want her to have the same educational opportunities as other children."

Mr. Joseph Ndawula, a Ugandan residing in China, expressed his commitment to supporting Ninsiima's education for as long as he lives. Reflecting on his own upbringing raised by a single mother, he said, "My childhood was not easy, but I always reassured my mother that things would get better. Supporting a young girl like Ninsiima is my way of giving back to God."

Mr. Gabriel Buule, a journalist at the Monitor who initiated the social media campaign to raise funds for Ninsiima, emphasized the importance of prioritizing girl-child education in any society. He explained, "When we educate girls, we empower them to think and make better decisions. Whenever an opportunity arises to help, we should support children." Mr. Buule launched the #FeesForNinsiima campaign to restore hope among Ugandans and demonstrate that they can address smaller issues themselves.

He further stated, "It is unacceptable to witness a child walking such a long distance, praying for school fees, and return empty-handed. We have become the answer to her prayers and changed her life."

Ms. Busingye, Ninsiima's aunt and companion on the journey, recalled their previous walks to Namugongo, where they would receive certificates, which Ninsiima admired. This time, Ninsiima expressed her desire to join them. Ms. Busingye acknowledged the challenges of the journey, particularly for a young child, but she provided constant encouragement. They prayed together and she urged Ninsiima to seek strength from God, eventually achieving their goal.

"I am at a loss for words; I can't believe what people have done for my sister's child. Truly, God works in mysterious ways," expressed Ms. Busingye. She added, "Walking to Namugongo signifies faith. Without faith, one cannot undertake such a long journey."

Every year, on June 3, thousands of pilgrims from various locations embark on the walk to Namugongo to celebrate the annual Martyrs Day.