The cancellation of this year's Martyrs Day celebrations due to Covid-19 pandemic did not only affect those for whom the day is an important date in their religious calendar.

Every year, vendors, small businesses and companies pitch camp in Namugongo, Wakiso District to cash in on close to two million pilgrims who visit the Martyrs Shrines for pilgrimage on June 3.

Ms Noet Baluka who is one of the dealers selling religious items has been earning close to Shs2m on this day but the cancellation of the event has left her with nothing.

Mr Ben Tenywa, the chief pilgrims guide at Uganda Martyrs Catholic Shrine, said the cancellation of the Martyrs Day fete left many people, especially those who were earning from it cursing.

Every year, christians from across the world flock to the shrine in a journey of faith to commemorate this day in honour of their religious heroes.